101. Being sunburnt isn’t fun

5 life lessons I learned to save you some pain:

1. The difference between good and bad is often smaller than you think

“I don’t look too bad” is never a phrase you want to catch yourself saying. I should’ve recognised that I was nearing risky territory with no suncream, out in the sun for hours, and sitting still for ages. Know the objective and then be self-aware when you are passing it.

2. The temporary inconvenience can help you in the long term

Lathering yourself up in sun cream can often leave you looking like a goon but do you know what looks worse… being burnt. Don’t be like me and think, “I’m too cool for that”. It’s not uncool to look after yourself.

3. Don’t go into situations naively

I sometimes think I’m invincible and you may too. Sorry to say but that’s utter rubbish. Thinking, “that will never happen to me” was the obstacle that led to my downfall and consequently me feeling miserable being burnt. Get rid of that thought process and prepare accordingly.

4. Staying still for too long will come back to bite you

Despite endless offers from mates to move and get some suncream I was comfortable and just like laying in a field at the festival. I didn’t want to change my environment. Every so often a quick check on yourself and orientation is necessary though.

5. Be willing to be judged for your decisions

The sad reality is that everyone judges you. Judgement for having suncream on, suncream off, for being pale, for being burnt. The question is what hill are you willing to die on. Sadly I think I backed the wrong decision.

“The greatest teacher, failure is” - Yoda