It also makes sense to be fit even if you aren't in sports. A bit of exercise, once you are used to doing it regularly, can give you a happy feeling and a glow and it can help make you look your best too! This can be hard for many to start if you aren't doing it now, but if you build up slowly you'll be doing amazing things in four or five months and that gives you pride too!

Guys mature more slowly than us and a guy at 15 or 16 is likely to have more self image problems than you. There may be some who are mature enough to be comfortable with a tall girl, but mostly that will come later. There are also a lot of guys who will always have problems with a tall woman, but think about it - if someone can't deal with that, they probably have a lot of insecurities and you probably wouldn't want to be with them anyway. Why waste 6 months of dating figuring out someone is screwed up when nature has given you a gift to spot some of these losers right off the bat.

You have to get over any issues you have with shorter guys. When you are dating at first, just go out for the experience and learn. Don't worry about finding the perfect guy for you because you have to be with many before you develop the skills to figure that out. The perfect guy may be taller than you or he may not be, but height is well down the list on things that really matter to me.

Developing a sense of humor is good too. Recently I talked to a very successful writer who is very short - he is 155 cm or a bit more than 5 feet tall. He is *really* funny and smart and is married to a woman who is taller than he is - and his daughters are both taller too. He told me a lot of short people have to develop humor as a survival skill and he thinks he wouldn't be as funny or fast thinking on his feet if he wasn't under so much pressure when he was the shortest person in his class at school. Now he is thankful for that as he has an amazing dream job and a wonderful family. He thinks if he was of more average height this wouldn't have happened

A friend of mine is quite a bit taller than me. She is very self confident and makes friends easily as she is fun to be around. She uses humor to deal with all of the looks and questions and can turn some of them into great conversations.

People mostly aren't used to seeing a tall girl or woman, so they don't know how to react. Give them the benefit of the doubt and show them you are an interesting person and the height part becomes unimportant. You can start this today by playing around how to deal with the comments you get on the street in a positive way. A friend of mine gives strangers who stare high fives - she tells them "you look like you could use a high five". Some people love that and it makes you and them happy. I make a joke and that works well. Others deflect the conversation to something else - I do this to by saying something positive about the person.

If you are like me you can set goals. I remember putting a note on my bathroom mirror that said I had to make 2 people smile and 1 person laugh that day. I couldn't always do it, but I keep a diary and I could go back and see my progress. I also use the diary for my athletic and work goals too - they are great things!

Oh - another thing. There are two things you must separate. One is how you fit in with people and the other is how stuff fits you. The last problem is an annoyance that just comes with being different and, depending on your height and shape, can be pretty severe. How you get on with people is something where you have a lot of control and becoming self confident will lead to a lot of pride and happiness.

When it comes to fitting into the material world life is getting better. There are many more apparel makers than before and there are places like this that have a lot of addresses and links. The Internet has made a huge difference. You can also find tips from people all over the world and ask questions. In the past you may have been the only tall girl in your town and finding advice was next to impossible.

There is still a lot of progress that needs to be made on stuff. Colleen has a good set of blog posts on pushing one area. Check out http://www.6footsix.com/colleenify/ and also look at the link where she shows some of her issues with photography http://www.6footsix.com/my_weblog/2009/11/colleenifying-the-world.html. It turns out that photos can be powerful. Take your own nad show them to a supervisor at work and maybe get a desk and chair that fit better. Show them to people who might be able to make stuff. Who knows, maybe there is even a little business you can start and make some money.

She loves to cook, but was getting huge back pains preparing the food. Some people saw her plight and listened and this resulted in a good solution for some of us. She was so excited that she put together a few posts promoting the product. There are probably hundreds of products that could be made to help out. Use your creativity!

If you have ideas for products or solutions that just work, post them as comments on her blog so others can see them.

You can solve how to deal with people and build your own glowing self confidence. Together we can put together the pieces and solutions to the problem of stuff that fits. Maybe 20 or 30 years from now being a tall girl or woman will be much easier. We can make it happen!

6'2 1/2" Shoshana wrote (June 30th 2010)

This is for Cecelia: It is sad that you feel the reason that you have never really had a significant relationship is because of your height. I am taller than you and I have never had a problem in the love department and I think that is because I have always been open and never limited myself to taller men. Love is about emotions and feelings not about height and what ppl think about who you are with or what they will say when they see you with the person. I don't want to sound harsh but I feel the real reason you have had trouble finding love is because of your own insecurities about you height. People can sense low self-esteem a mile away and it's not attractive. Also - for the record - I don't think that men just like short women. I think men like confident women who feel good about who they are... and I have learned the hard way that dating someone just because they are taller never works. I have dated a guy who's 6ft10 and he got on my nerves. He was so cocky and arrogant! My currant bf is 5ft11 AND I love him just the way he is...

5'10 1/2" Taylor wrote (June 30th 2010)

Hi! To Gladys and anyone else that's having a hard time seeing themselves as beautiful... spend a lot of time looking at yourself in the mirror. Try on different hair styles or different clothes and discover what makes you feel and look good. Take a dance class to get in tune with your body. Watch your posture in the mirror... act confident in yourself even though you might not feel it. Eventually you will feel it too. I also think it's great to remember something when you are out. Have someone who is famous and around your height and think about them and how fabulous they look and that u are tall like them so you must look great too. Positive messages!

6'2" Susan wrote (June 28th 2010)

Hi, Gladys... Little girl, hang in there, it will get better. I think everyone has their own experience, but one thing would be to study yourself 1st physically, there has to be at least one gorgeous attribute that you have, i.e. eyes, mouth, smile, legs, etc. 2nd mentally, develop your mind/personality. Everyone has insecurities, but you need to maximize the positives and minimize the negatives. I think sometimes we tall women, have had times in our lives where we tended to make so much more out of our height, thinking that everyone is focusing on how tall we are because they are not. I hope that helps a little. Hugs-Susan

6'2" Crystal wrote (June 27th 2010)

Look at me. See a tree. I also look like the number 1.

6'2 1/2" Gladys wrote (June 25th 2010)

Hey everyone. I'm 6'2 1/2" and I'm barely 15. It's hard for me right now because I can't find me. I have been picked on since the second grade and I've always been the tallest girl in school. Yea, it's hard and difficult for me but I see your quotes. Some of you are married and I'm happy for that but it's not how it used to be. Now guys have to be taller than girls. It gets difficult. And even though I haven't accepted that I'm tall I'm trying to. I honestly wanna know: how did everyone do it? How did y'all get to be so confident and love being tall? I can't find that and I hate it. But any advice would help.

5'11" Brianna wrote (June 24th 2010)

I'm 17 years old and I'm don't believe I am tall. There are people taller than me in this world. It is tough being in high school and having 90% of the school shorter than you but it's all good when it come to activities because then all of my shorter friends complain that they can't see past the person in front of them and you can see right over everyone's head. All in all being tall is something everyone here should embrace and never fear.

6'0" Denisa wrote (June 23rd 2010)

To Cecilia: I must say that I don't agree tall women are lonely. Even though I would also prefer to be shorter - because of the heels thing - I think I am attractive for men. When I was younger, I got lot of invitations for dinner even from unknown men on the street and I am still getting compliments (I am 38, slim). I am married now, I have two friends (girls) who are about my height and both are happily married. And I have some friends that are average height and are still alone. I think the problem is nobody wants to share life with somebody full of inferiority complexes. The problem is not the height, the problem is its acceptance.

5'11" Nanette wrote (June 22nd 2010)

I'm happy with a short MAN... LOL. I never thought that would ever happen. But as they say... opposites attract! I love being tall - we have an advantage in life. The only men who will want to date you are the confident men who can handle a TALL woman! So ladies luv that we will come across all the confident men, and not the ones who need to feel like a man! So glad I found ths site! TALL WOMEN ROCK! And we can reach the highest shelves!

6'2" Melissa wrote (June 21st 2010)

I'm 26 yrs old and have been tall all my life! I don't remember a time when I wasn't the tallest person in class. Needless to say I have never really hated my height. There were times when I wished I could go unnoticed in a crowd because I was having one of those days. But I find a lot of enjoyment in my height. I do envy the women who can walk thru standard doors with 6" heels on without ducking, LOL!! I have a tall daughter, she's 4 and I can tell she's gonna be my little amazon. Fortunately for us we have each other and she has a built in shopping buddy. I'm so thrilled at the how merchants have decided that tall women exist!!! Ladies, the inseams!!! The STYLISH larger shoes!!! Here's to all my beautiful tall women!!!

6'0" Sherry wrote (June 20th 2010)

Hi, I sprung up taller than most of my peers at about age 12. It was difficult during my high school years and just like many of you have mentioned, I didn't get a date until college. Thankfully, I married my college sweetheart, who is also 6 feet. I realize that I was fortunate because I know that some shallow and insecure men are intimadated by tall women. Due to my optimistic nature, I have always been confident in who I am as well as what I look like, and that is the energy that I give off when someone meets me. I am stared at, get asked ALL those TALL girl questions,and I get all the corny comments from family, friends, coworkers, and strangers and it does NOT bother me because I know who I am. I don't let my height stop me from wearing heels or anything else that looks appropriate on me. For all the young ladies that say they "hate being tall", I would suggest loving and accepting who you are because that will shine through and people will also love and accept you for you and NOT how tall you are... I know it's easier said than done, but practice makes perfect and now is a gr8 time to start. Good Luck! ;0)

5'11" Cecilia wrote (June 19th 2010)

At 5'11" I'm not as tall as it could have turned out. I work with a gal who is 6'2"(still looking for love). I'm turning 50 in July and I still hate being big and tall. Every year someone asks about my height. I endured severe teasing from the age of 9 to 17 for something not in my control. And the rude remarks and offensive insults never stop. I think they will and then I am shocked when someone insults me yet again. I stand up straight and have always worn whatever shoes look best with the outfit... heels are in my closet. I have never gotten married and have had only 2 significant relationships with men. The reality is very few tall men are attracted to tall women. Tall men might have tall moms and sisters and aunts, but they spend most of their time in the real world with petite and feminine women. I've gone out with the 5'7" men and can't finish my meal around a guy that I'm bigger than. I don't like a man to "like looking up at me". What's wrong with him? I think "hang in there" is weird advice because you are not going to ever be little. I wish I had known to be more realistic about my size and how it would dictate love. Yes, the top of the fridge gets cleaned, but ladies, it's lonely at the top. Best to find a passionate hobby.

6'0" Lindsey wrote (June 17th 2010)

I find it so sad that so many girls hate being tall. I usually forget about my height and am only reminded when I catch people looking at my feet to see if I'm in heels(which I usually am). I think the most important thing is to walk with your head held high. Confidence says way more about you then your height does. I've been told by people that they love the way I walk. I've been described as graceful and told that I have an amazing presence. I'm not tootin' my own horn, but I just want people to know that there is beauty in being tall. When it comes to men, keep in mind that it takes a confidant man to be with a tall women. I'm personally not interested in a man who lacks that confidence. It wasn't until relatively recently that I realized that I can be attracted to a man shorter then me. I think we just have it in our heads that a man should be taller than a woman. It's time to change the way we think. Of course I get the "you must play basket ball" comments, which I'm actually terrible at, but I also get the "you should go into modeling" comments as well. Focus on the positives and you will be a much happier person.

6'2" Christine wrote (June 10th 2010)

Hi, gals (stats you probably know, but I'm saying them anyway LOL).

Hope all my fellow tall sisters are well.

We should remember (but I'm sure you all know); it's tough for very short men too; (the other side of the coin so to speak). I sometimes chat with a man online who is about 5 foot 1, and he says "Women want tall guys".) I don't mind men a few inches shorter, that's cool, but that much shorter? I wouldn't be comfortable. Kudos to tall women and short men that are cool with an extreme difference!

My "baby" brother is 6 foot 5 (so apparently that makes him 8 inches taller than the "average" North American male whom is only 5 foot 9. Sooo, me being a 6 foot 2 inch woman, I'am 9 inches taller than the "average" North American woman, whom is only 5 foot 5. I love my brother, BUT if he had to go through what I do; he would be 5 feet tall. I KNOW my 5 foot 10 inch sister-in-law wouldn't look twice at him if he was 5 feet tall.

It's a shame that height has to be such an issue. In some ways, I FINALLY think it's cool to be a tall gal :) but yes, I wish there were more tall men... such is life... thanks for reading.

Peace and love xo, Christine

6'1 1/2" Rachael wrote (June 8th 2010)

I have always been tall, and never really felt comfortable about it. Until about a year ago I started doing cat walk modeling and to be honest it makes me feel great about myself. Now I love my height and I'm only 17. Yes, I may stand out and that helps my confidence so much. People may come up and make stupid jokes or ask questions, and I just answer them or laugh. If they do wind me up I just make jokes about them being small. It's just something you learn to love. =]

5'10 1/2" Sara wrote (June 8th 2010)

Hi, my name is Sara. I am 22 years old and have always felt somewhat "out of place" being taller. Most of my friends are shorter than me (which seems to be a common thing with most tall people). 95% of all the shoes in my closet are flats and the only heels I do own are no more than 2.5 inches. Though, I still feel self concious now and again, I am slowly accepting my tall stature. My advice to anyone tall: Do whatever YOU want. You only have one life and this one body so you might as well enjoy it. I think I might wear heels to work tomorrow :-)

6'0" Stevie wrote (June 7th 2010)

Sometimes you just have to live with what is given you, I guess. I'm 15 and I know I'm pretty tall, and a part hope that I will get taller. If I was 5'8", I'd be very attractive but because of my height I scare guys away. Which I don't mind especially if they are the shallow ones. But I always find some of the sweet shorter guys really like me, but I'm uninterested == My chest is always in their faces so that's probably not a bad thing (when I'm ballroom dancing) for them. Haha!

I know I'm not the tallest tree in the forest, but it seems for me a lot of people are so amazed at my height. I no longer get offended at people who ask me about my height, I don't mind talking about it. But when they ask me about "Do you play basketball?" That's a little offensive... that's like asking a black person if they eat chicken or something..

Anyway, that's my story!

6'1 1/2" Marissa wrote (June 7th 2010)

I also hated being tall growing up. I remember being called the "Great Green Giant" like from the veggie cans. Junior High was the worst. I was already 5'9" in 7th grade growing an inch each year so that when I turned 16 I was 6'0". I am now 24 and stopped growing at just over 6'1". I absolutely LOVE being tall now. I wear heels and make sure to dress well because if you are going to attract attention anyways, you might as well look good right? And those who are having a hard time dating, it's not because you are unattractive - it's because boys are intimidated by you. They aren't used to talking to a girl who can look them straight in the eye. Be proud of who you are and don't be afraid to walk tall and flaunt your beauty!

5'11" Vivian wrote (June 7th 2010)

Hi! I'm 17 and naturally a very happy person, but people always like to bring me down. So many jokes on my height and my big feet. God made me this way. I feel so insecure most of the time but I always try to hide it. For my 17th birthday, I wore 3 inch heels! I felt... pretty. I felt good walking with my skirt cuz I have long legs. Most of my friends make fun of my height, but I mean they just have to get over it. I have never dated anyone. I have never even kissed a boy. When I go to college I hope I find a boyfriend. I really want to model too! And I love this site. It helps me know that I'm not alone. We are all tall and beautiful!

6'1" Cami wrote (June 7th 2010)

Growing up being tall was the worst... my clothes never fit right. I could never find anyone to slow dance with. I was a nickname magnet... I never could understand why people would always tell me how lucky I was for having my height. Now, at 19 and 6'1", I wouldn't trade my height for the world. As a tall woman you automatically stand out from the crowd. We're rare and stunning, and intimidating! Sometimes when I walk down the street in the city, I like to stand up extra tall when I'm walking by men. It's funny to see them straighten their posture as fast as they can. Another perk that many tall ladies seem to forget: if we gain 10 pounds it's a lot less noticeable then if it were on one of our "normal sized" friends. We are recruited in a many number of different establishments: modeling, athletics etc. and there has been a study showing that taller people are more likely to get hired than shorter people. We never have to worry about wearing 5 inch heels cuz we were born with all the inches we need to look sexy!

6'2 1/2" Ellie wrote (June 5th 2010)

Sure it was hard growing up tall, but now I am at peace with it, and have married a gorgeous man who loves tall women (he's five inches shorter than me). My daughters will also be very tall, so I make sure I talk in front of them about how much I love being tall, and so does my husband. My mother always said it looks worse to slouch than to be tall. I agree. You just have to walk tall and pretend to be proud of it, even if you're not. It's like with any advertising. If someone looks as though they love what they have, everyone else will want it. And you can get a LOT of confidence from that! Even now I'm 40, lots of young women come over to tell me how jealous they are of me, and how they'd love to be as tall. Another piece of advice - always wear nice shoes. Everyone checks your shoes to see whether you're wearing high heels. Ho ho.

5'10 1/2" Matea wrote (June 5th 2010)

I don't like being tall at. I hate it, but ever since I started looking at this website I feel more confident. Because whenever I look at girls at school who have boyfriends taller then them I always wonder how it feels to look up to somebody. I've always wanted to stand on my toes when I can't reach something, but now I can basically reach everything and have to accept the fact that God created me from his mind. And if I'm criticizing myself, I'm critizing God's creation.

5'10" Nicki wrote (June 3rd 2010)

I am 5'10" and 18 which isn't as tall as a lot of you, but compared to all my friends in college (all 5'3"-5'6"). I feel quite huge! I don't have a problem getting boys as I believe it's the way you show yourself to show how tall you really are! If you walk through town with big clonky heels on and broad shoulders, you're bound to look bigger, but wear something cute and dinky, or a nice pair of skinny jeans to flaunt the great legs you will all have and you would look lovely (: For me it's not the height, it's how you feel about yourself and how it shows! I hate being this tall, but I know there's nothing I can do about it, so I do the best with what I've got :) Hope this helps :)

5'10" Nilay wrote (June 1st 2010)

I am 14 now and I'm 5'10". I have always been the tallest person in my class and in my school and I hate it. It's really annoying when a boy I like comes up to me and says 'OMG! How tall are you?' I get really offended. My closest friends and my mother tells me that I'm really luck and beautiful. I'm doing modelling at an agency in Turkey with is very well known. I started there just a few months ago and I've already been on fashion shows and advertisements. The only reason I got this far is because of the support from my family(which made me confident) and because of my height at this age. There are women at my agency that are 20-28 years old but that haven't even been to a photo shoot yet because they are short. So find smthng your good at. Find something that makes you feel good and be proud about your height. I If I weren't tall at age 14 I would have never got here. Even though people at school talk about me and make fun of me I know that it's a gift and I should be proud! So all of those tall young and pretty girls who are reading this know that you are different and being different is special! Love you all!

5'10" Sheena wrote (May 31st 2010)

I'm a 1/4 inch away from being 5'10" yet people treat me like I'm 6'6". I'm the tallest woman at my job. People are constantly asking me how tall I am. Even strangers on the street question me about my height. LOL! I guess that I am kinda tall for a woman but it's not that bad, right? My female best friend is 6'2". I'm 24 so I know that I'm finally done growing, thank God. And I'm not ashamed of my height though I would much rather be 5'7" or 5'8" tops. I have no problems finding clothes and shoes in regular stores and men still find me very attractive. My point is that being a tall girl is not such a bad thing. It just makes you stand out a little more.

5'10 1/2" Taylor wrote (May 31st 2010)

After reading some comments on here I would just like to say something... I think when you are tall you should not compare yourself to someone that is much shorter than you. If you do that you will probably never be happy with yourself and how you perceive you should look. We all look different in lots of different ways and size is just one way we are different. Rather than worrying about how others perceive you, think about the image you want to project to others. If you love heels and dressing up, do it and enjoy the fact that you are taller than most around you. Yes, everyone is looking at you because you stand out, which is wonderful, enjoy the attention and then when people make comments about your height, go with it, with some comment that says something positive about height, you will be surprised at the reactions you get. As tall women we can make a difference ourselves with how people see us.

6'0 1/2" Alaine wrote (May 31st 2010)

Oh, man, do I feel the pain that most of you do. My older brother and I have always been a year apart and the same height, so everyone expected me to be just like him. The only problem is that he's also always been really athletic and in great shape and I've never been either of those. I don't do basketball or softball or volleyball, and I had to stop ballet in fifth grade because my feet were too big. And for all of you who have gone away to college and suddenly felt accepted, I really envy you. I'm still *the* tall girl, even though there are a lot of other tall girls around me. I'm now the tallest person in my entire 60+ marching band, and no one let's me forget it. I just hope that one day my height will cease to define who and what I am.

6'2" Susan wrote (May 30th 2010)

This comment is geared to all the girls, especially Eva and Danielle, and I think there were more that "hate" being tall. It might seem too simple, but, you girls need to remember (I hope) no matter how you look insecure people are going to try and make you feel that you are less than who you are. Mainly, because of how they view themself. If you buy into the premise that you are not worthy... you are going to attract that attitude and your body language conveys all the negative feelings that you have about yourself. I agree it wasn't easy in junior high and high school, but, I am telling you if you love yourself and accept yourself and truly walk the talk you will attract men, good men. Think about why would someone want to be with someone who doesn't believe they are good enough to be with... Maybe get involved in some type of activities where you can see the true asset that you have. Take care - and walk straight :) Susan

5'11 1/2" Eva wrote (May 30th 2010)

I agree with everyone who says tall girls have a hard time getting dates. I've never had luck in that department, and it's soooo hard seeing all your cute petite friends have great adoring boyfriends, while you're the only single one in the group. Everyone always says tall women are lucky, men love us, well that has certainly not been my experience. I am 30 now and I think I can safely say that being tall is as much of a turnoff to men as being overweight. Sure, there are some men out there who dig it, but they are few and far between, and probably already taken. I hate hate hate being tall.

6'0" Danielle wrote (May 29th 2010)

I hate being tall. I'm 16, a senior in high school and I'm tired of always having to hear people's rude comments. I know I'm a giant and I can't blame them for noticing but I didn't ask to be like this. It's just plain horrible :( I have a boyfriend and I've been with him 2 years and he loves me how I am but I know deep down I'm not good enough for him. I want to go to prom but I can't becuz I can't wear heels. Everything is all bad but hey... I guess it's life as an abnormal person, right ?

5'10" Marie wrote (May 29th 2010)

I'm a 16-yr old half Japanese and half American and I'm 5ft 10 (for the fist time in my life I'm one of the shorter ppl here ;D). All tall women should be feeling extremely lucky about their height - it's so attractive to be tall! I started modeling this year, which is something that is exclusive to tall people! All those models, those Victoria's Secret underwear models men love like Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio and Miranda Kerr are all over 5'10"... guys love tall girls! :D We've got long legs that short people can only wish for, and we get to flaunt it in our 4" heels! It gives us an advantage in many sports like basketball and volleyball too. Thank you Lord, and thank you my parents for making me this tall! C'mon everyone, let's work what our mama gave us :)

5'11 1/2" Vanessa wrote (May 26th 2010)

Well, at least you all have the figures for your height and when I say figure I mean slim. Hmmmm, imagine your height plus 282 lbs weight. I have always been two times the sizes of all my friends and always taller than all my friends. I hate shopping because nothing will fit because it is always too small or the pants are always too short. I was going back to my dorm one night in college. I passed by two girls and I overheard them say "Oh my gosh. Was that a woman or a man?" In all my 22 years on earth I have never dated anyone. I made peace with that when I realised all my friends will get guys to talk to them at parties and I will be left standing alone like one big log. Yes, it hurts all the time but I always say to myself "Look, there's someone out there having a worse day than you so cheer up". So to all my tall slim sisters out there: "Cheer up! Someone is having it worse than you."

5'11" Vanessa wrote (May 26th 2010)

I'm 5'11" and sometimes I hate it, other times I love it! I'm a model and it's not even hard to get guys.

5'10 1/2" Meagan wrote (May 24th 2010)

Hi :) I'm 14 and 5'10 1/2". When I was 7-13 years old I was constantly teased by the guys in my year. They were all a good head shorter (and more) than me and they constantly laughed, picked on, and gave me nicknames. And the girls laughed, didn't want to be friends, bullied and made a webpage about how ugly, tall and unseccessfull I will become. Then I went into high school without those girls and guys from school. Some of the girls here are constantly reminding me how tall I am and I really hate it (but some are actually nice). I am starting to become a little bit more confident with my height because I bought 3 inch heels recently, and i love them ! :) But the guys just laugh and call me names again. Now from reading all your comments I'm proud to say Ii think those guys and girls are just jealous that my legs are longer and sexier than theirs. Thank you so much :)

Joerg says: Great! You go, girl!

6'3" Jheri wrote (May 23rd 2010)

I'm going to recommend what may seen to be an unlikely book to many of you. It is aimed at kids from 11 to 14, but I think it is so well written that others will enjoy it. On the surface it is written for short kids, but it makes some important points and there is a lot to learn from it.

The book is "Walking Tall When You're not Tall at All" by John Schwartz. Mr Schwartz is a science writer and is now the legal correspondent for the New York Times. He tells a story with examples from his own life with great humor to make his points. He gets into psychology, bullying, being different and he presents one of the clearest ways to look at statistics I've seen for this age group.

Kids, particularly those who are different, can learn how to develop self esteem and get a better sense of priorities. The lessons apply if you are heavy, thin, tall, short, a nerd, unathletic, not a native language speaker or whatever. Average or tall kids can learn about how others deal with what they have been given.

Mr Schwartz does point out several role models, but it is not done with the air of superiority I've seen in other places and he is great at debunking reported statistics and seem to be well known and are reported in some books, but don't hold up to scrutiny when you examine the scientific papers. Teaching kids to think critically about what they hear and read is very important.

So if you are 11-14 I recommend it without hesitation and you'll probably enjoy it even if you are older and it gives you something you can pass down to someone else. Here is a link to a pdf of an excerpt:

http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/books/ems/pdfs/ShortCpt1.pdf

I'm very happy with my height. It was a bit hard when I was a kid and a lot of people seem to think I should still be sorry about it, but I've grown out of that. But more importantly I'm even prouder of who I am and of what I've done with my life and I'm proud of and happy for those I know who have done good in this world. Height, weight or anything else physical does not count as truly important.

6'0" Taja wrote (May 21st 2010)

Hi, my name is Taja (like pronouncing "asia" but with a "T" in front of it) and I've always been the tallest girl in school. I've always gotten picked on for it a lot too, and even more so because of my chocolate skin tone. I always hated being so tall because it brought so much unwanted attention, and boys always laughed at the mean comments people made about me. I thought I would never break free from that sad lonely life. But today I am 16 years old and stand 6'0" and I have more confidence in myself now. :) I obtained a lot of respect and I've even had a few guys say that i was beautiful. I have a boyfriend who loves my height even tho he's shorter than I am, but it doesnt matter. For all you tall women out there who are ashamed of your height or get made fun of for it, just know one thing... UR OBVIOUSLY DOING SOMETHING RIGHT FOR PEOPLE TO BE WORRYING ABOUT YOU INSTEAD OF THEMSELVES LOL!!! And don't be afraid to wear high heels either!!! Show off your legs and STAND PROUD LADIES!!! Much love to you all!

5'10 1/2" Linda wrote (May 20th 2010)

To Emily... When people say you're too tall, ask them "too tall for what?" Also, when people comment about you being tall say "I know, I got LUCKY!!!!"

6'0 1/2" Jacquelyn wrote (May 20th 2010)

I'm only 19 and I'm 6 feet. When I was younger I use to get teased about it all the time and I hated being so tall. I grew up and now I can say I don't mind being so tall because most guys like or love tall girls. They say I have legs that go on for miles and they love it. I got my confidence from my mom because she is tall also. Now honestly I don't care what people have to say about my height because I just look at them and tell them that they are just jealous of me so they can keep hatin' all they want. I love me for me now!!

6'1" Zena wrote (May 20th 2010)

Hi... Love this site... when people ask me how tall I am, I would say something like, "I am one step closer to heaven", "Looks like you're still in hell"... or I would get the same thing, "You're tall" and I would say "Really? I thought It was you who was getting smaller".

Thank you. I just thought I would share...It does get annoying hearing these ignorant comments.

6'3 1/2" Lori wrote (May 20th 2010)

Hi, I'm Lori. I'm 47 yrs old and over 6'3". I used to dislike being soooo tall. It's sort of grown on me now. There are many advantages and disadvantages, but don't people of any height have both. I can see over everyone's head in a crowd but it's hard to get something out from under the sink. For me the biggest challenge has been clothes shopping. I have a 38" inseam and size 13 shoe. I've heard all the childish comments from "average" height people and have come up with a few comebacks of my own. It's hard for people to make fun of you if you make the jokes yourself. Back in high school other kids would pick on me for being tall, but only in groups. No one would say a word when it was one on one. I've never actually been in a fight because all I had to do was stand up. I've learned at a young age to love who you are. What other people think doesn't matter. Their lives must be pretty boring if they have nothing better to do than to pick on you.

5'11" Fior wrote (May 19th 2010)

I'm 5'11" and I just purchased 4 3/4 inch heels ;-)

5'11" Emily wrote (May 18th 2010)

Well, I am 5'11" and HATE IT! I am a sophomore, and I'm praying that I don't get any taller. Almost everytime I see someone they say "Wow, you're tall, or you're too tall. And I hate being called amazon and jolly green giant :(. I wear shoes that practically have no soles so I won't be over 5'11". I want to be confident with my height! Any tips?

6'0" Marie wrote (May 16th 2010)

I just happened to stumble on to this site and although I have found pride and gratitude for my height at this point in my life (age 40), it is still inspiring to hear from other tall women I can see "eye to eye with". My advice, always stand up straight and own it, you have a great opportunity to stand out and and can use that to your advantage... Lastly, adding regular exercise and healthy eating habits to my life was the best decision I ever made. It feels even better to have a tall healthy body!

6'1" Haley wrote (May 14th 2010)

Hi, I'm Haley. I'm in highschool, and just happen to be 6'1". I really hate it but what can you do? I've been taller than everyone since I was little, and it seems that all the guys at my school are really short and want no part of dating a tall girl. I'm hoping that when I get in college there will be tall guys that like tall girls. And I'm sorry but I seriously hate being tall, there's nooooo advantages.

6'0" Erica wrote (May 14th 2010)

I love being tall. It was a great benefit growing up. I am now 27 years old, 6'0" tall and love it! I had more men attracted to me than most girls I knew. As long as you have confidence the men will be attracted and say it is a plus with being super tall with long legs! It also helped land me a college scholarship in basketball. God was good to me when he decided to give me 37" length legs!!!

5'10" Jean wrote (May 13th 2010)

Well, in my country, my height is MORE than JUST intimidating. It's like people stare at me like, I don't know what they're staring at. They just like to stare. Being tall isn't awesome, but I won't say the legs aren't. Thanks, God :)

5'11" Samantha wrote (May 9th 2010)

I'm in highschool right now. I'm only a sophomore and I have started feeling better about my height. I used to hate it soo much especially since I couldn't walk by someone without them commenting on how tall I was. Even now everyone asks me if im a model or if i play basketball or volleyball. This still bugs me but it's more of an angry thing, not a sad thing.

I wear 2 inch boots just about everyday. I love heels and nothing will keep me from wearing them!!!

Whenever someone comments on my heels I say "I'm already taller than everyone anyway, what difference are these heel really going to make?" Tall is beautiful!!!

5'10" Erica wrote (May 8th 2010)

I am in high school and I have never even been kissed by a boy. They are all really short. I used to think cause I wasn't pretty enough but I learned it's because I am too tall. Don't let them get to you. I'm sure once we get older guys will adore us.

Joerg says: Trust me, they will! It's just a matter of time.

6'1" Sara wrote (May 8th 2010)

I used to absolutely detest being a tall girl, especially growing up in a smalll town where people aren't very accepting of different people, but when I was 19 I took my first trip to NYC, and for once I wasn't the minority, there were tall girls everywhere. Not only was it a refreshing change of pace, but everywhere I went I got invatations to model. I finally felt beautiful, not weird. Being tall is difficult when you're growing up, but difference is what makes the world beautiful, and these days I'm happy to be a part of that tall females club. When someone says something rude about your height, just keep in mind that you're intimidating as a tall girl, but rather then feeling bad about it, use it to your advantage and rule the world, tall girl, those legs are too good to be wasted! :)

6'3" Jheri wrote (May 4th 2010)

It is very good to see a string of positive messages!

I'm very happy and proud of what I have height-wise and wouldn't trade it. There are some problems, but even more opportunities. Just learn how to use it. It certainly helps me with my basic shyness and I've met a lot of good people that I probably wouldn't have if I was closer to normal.

Probably the most gratifying is that a lot of kids think it is "freaking awesome" that I'm tall and that can be a lot of fun. I think we can teach them a lot about acceptance.

At some point along the way I finally realized that I was pretty unique and could have my own style. I'm still learning, but start figuring out yours.

6'2" Susan wrote (May 3rd 2010)

Good words from both Renee and Cort... Very true on both counts.

6'0" Renee wrote (May 2nd 2010)

Hang in there young ladies. I am 52 years old and 6'0" and was tall when it wasn't cool and I saw NOONE female that looked like me. Plus I was skinny and was called Olive Oyl, Ethiopian Hunger Poster, Momma Long Legs and Zipper Woman (you know, if I stood sideways and stuck out my tongue I'd look like a zipper!). Well I'm here to tell you things got much better in college and have gotten better ever since. Now I'm over 50, tall, and I'm told... fabulous. So hang in there. It will really come in handy when your shorter, formerly sexy counterparts begin to gain that over 35 poundage. You will carry it well and they will look like "240 shorties". My daughters are 20 and 21, 5'11" and 6'0" and gorgeous. Stand up straight, be confident and learn to love who you are. Tall is beautiful!! Renee

6'2" Cort wrote (May 1st 2010)

What's up, yall? Some of yall are upset at not having a boyfriend. I know how that feels. I am 19 and here's the thing, I NEVER dated until college. Guys were intimidated, and ladies it's true... in college guys like tall girls, legs. HEEEELLLLOOOOOO. So for you high school girls: I know it sucks but let me tell you, you walk into college confident and beautiful you will have guys LINING UP. And yes, they are tall. So just be patient, know you are beautiful and that guys are just too insecure to handle the height. =)

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