‘Used To Be Young’: What We Learned Growing Up With Miley Cyrus

If you grew up with Miley Cyrus, her latest single ‘Used To Be Young’ may have hit you hard in the chest. For a lot of us, Miley has been a staple of our childhood and early adult years, so realizing we’re growing up is a bit of a bitter pill to swallow. If you ask us, though, we think it’s been a beautiful journey growing up with Miley. She’s taught us so many valuable life lessons throughout the last seventeen years and we couldn’t be more grateful to have lived life alongside Miley Cyrus.

‘Used To Be Young’

Simplicity reigns here. The video is intimate and dimly lit, spotlighting Miley and her vulnerability. She acknowledges that she may not dress or act the same as she used to and there’s a deeper reason. In the words of Miley herself, “Turns out open bars lead to broken hearts and going way too far.” She may be different than who she used to be, but that’s a part of growing up and becoming who you are in the moment.

This song is about honoring who we’ve been, loving who we are and celebrating who we will become. I feel proud when reflecting on my past and optimistic when thinking about the future. I am grateful to my loyal fans who make my dreams a reality daily. I am sincerely thankful for the stability of your steadfast support. This song is for you.

Miley Cyrus

We Can Be Anything We Want To Be

With the premiere of Hannah Montana, the world shifted. Tween girls all over the world had someone their age to inspire and entertain them. Many avid Hannah Montana viewers have surely quoted the show a time or two (or incessantly), but we’d bet they’ve also lived by the motto: “Everybody makes mistakes… everybody gets that way…” Did you finish the lyrics? Of course, you did!

Hannah also taught us we could do anything we set our mind to. Whether you want to be President or a superhero, as long as you’re authentic to yourself and embrace your individuality, the world is yours.

‘Who Said’

There’s no holding back, hangin’ right on track. ‘Cause you control the game. So let them know your name, no limitations on imagination.

Hannah Montana

Keep Going Even When Things Get Tough

We became a generation of dreamers. How could we not with motivation like that? As time went on, though, we learned that life isn’t always a dream. It’s full of ups and downs; with happiness can come heartbreak. We’d call them growing pains now. The first crushes that didn’t like us back or those friendships we had to leave behind. We weren’t prepared for it, but neither was Miley. Still, she let us know it’s okay to fall down sometimes. If you work through those doubts you can come out on the other side.

‘The Climb’

There’s always gonna be another mountain. I’m always gonna wanna make it move. Always gonna be an uphill battle. Sometimes I’m gonna have to lose. Ain’t about how fast I get there. Ain’t about what’s waiting on the other side. It’s the climb.

Miley Cyrus

Don’t Be Afraid To Walk Your Own Path

Being a teenager during the Can’t Be Tamed era was an experience! Miley was facing backlash simply for expressing herself and it made you wonder if you would, too. Obviously, it wouldn’t be in front of the entire world, but maybe it’d be worse in front of your entire world: your family, your friends, or yourself.

Even then, Miley stayed true to herself. She didn’t allow herself to be silenced. The entire album personified that in-between feeling of being a child and a young adult. One song that has stuck with us all of this time is ‘Liberty Walk.’ Miley reminded us that we have one life which means we have to live it to the fullest, no matter what others say or think.

‘Liberty Walk’

Don’t be afraid to make a move. It won’t hurt you, just do what you were born to do and everything works out right. Don’t listen to all the people who hate.

Miley Cyrus

You Will Get Your Heart Broken

It’s not pretty but it’s inevitable. You will fall in love and feel on top of the world and it may come crashing down. As much as we don’t want to feel that pain, it’s important to remember that it is, unfortunately, a part of life. We can give our heart and soul to a person only for them to leave. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t allow ourselves to love. Love is amazing. It’s special and pure and magical. So, love fully and without fear. But pick yourself back up if it doesn’t work out.

‘Wrecking Ball’

I came in like a wrecking ball. I never hit so hard in love. All I wanted was to break your walls. All you ever did was wreck me.

Miley Cyrus

No One Will Love You Like You Can

At the end of the day, the only person you truly have forever is you. It might not be the nicest concept to think about and it’s not to say we don’t need other people. However, we’re going to be much happier when we learn to love ourselves. Embrace your flaws, feel your emotions, and tell yourself that you are enough. After all, you can buy yourself flowers, so do it! Love yourself like no one else will, because you’ll love yourself the best.

‘Flowers’

I can buy myself flowers; write my name in the sand. Talk to myself for hours; say things you don’t understand. I can take myself dancing and I can hold my own hand. Yeah, I can love me better than you can.

Miley Cyrus

What lessons did Miley teach you growing up? Let us know in the comments or share your favorite Miley Cyrus song with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @thehoneypop. Want to connect to other music fans? Join the Honey POP Discord today!

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