What would you say to your younger self?
Have you ever written a letter to yourself? I’ve had a few conversations as of late with friends and colleagues about this idea of writing yourself a love letter. Now through the years, and the many leadership and personal development programs, courses, and camps I’ve attended, I’ve written quite a few. Sometimes you even put it in an addressed envelope and a year or more later you get a surprise in the mail.
I haven’t done it in a while. And although some may think it funny, I do think with every new day and every new experience we go through, we learn something. And looking back to a younger version of ourselves, maybe we could use some of the wisdom and advice from the person we are today.
And so, perhaps it’s that time again. And perhaps you’d like to join me in the exercise. Also, if anything I write resonates with you, feel free to use as you wish!
Dear Carol,
Regardless of what happens please know, and believe, that who and what you are is enough. Whatever seems like a huge deal right now, it won’t be a few months from now. Trust me. And trust yourself. Trust your gut. Trust that you are exactly where you need to be.
It may seem like you’re in a rush. Don’t be. I know there is so much you want to do, experience, accomplish. And while that’s commendable, life is not a race. I know it’s easy to say ‘enjoy the journey’. Try and understand what that means. Enjoy the moments. And celebrate the small steps.
Be careful comparing yourself with others. There will always be people ahead of you, and there will also always be people behind you. And don’t compare your reality to everyone else’s highlight reel! Perception is reality, except that it isn’t. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
There are going to be these extremely popular social media platforms called Facebook and Instagram and the like. Use them to connect with your friends and colleagues, in a fun and authentic way, but don’t become obsessed. And the moment you feel yourself scrolling through everyone else’s life and not feeling so good about your own, get off there!
Stay young. Stay fit. Get outside. Exercise regularly by finding activities you enjoy doing. Try new sports. Challenge yourself. Eat lots of greens, don’t have french fries or junk food too often, but still allow yourself to indulge every once in a while. As Mum used to say, everything in moderation.
Enjoy the time with your friends and especially your family. Never take that time for granted. After all, they are the most important people in your life. Don’t try to maximize every moment, or multi-task too much. You’re going to be teaching people about the importance of being present; try to also practice what you preach.
Keep learning. Read more. Stay humble. Meet new people and make them feel special. Remember people’s names. Get to really know them. Connect with them. And get to know their stories. Everyone has one, and they can teach you a lot.
Smile at strangers. Smile at the sun. Smile just because.
Pay attention to what lights you up, what makes your heart sing. It’s okay if you haven’t figured out yet what you want to be when you grow up. Some of the most interesting people you’ll meet are still searching. But don’t wait to figure it out. No one ever got ready by waiting. Take action. Do something. Even if you’re not sure where it will lead. Even if you’re afraid. Especially if you’re afraid.
Don’t take anything too seriously. Laugh and be silly. Practice gratitude. Get enough sleep and drink lots of water. Some of this may sound cliché, but it works.
Be polite. You can never say please and thank you too much or too often. Treat people the way you want to be treated.
Most importantly, have the courage to be you. You’re perfect exactly as you are, with all of your imperfections and idiosyncrasies. You will only ever be the best in the world at being you. So embrace it. Be your own champion.
You got this. I believe in you.
Carol
Have you ever written a letter to your younger self? Try it. You may just offer some wisdom you need to hear. (Click to tweet it out!)
Have a FAB week!
P.S. I have a NEW Living BIG monthly challenge up! You can watch it HERE.
What would you write in a letter to your younger self? Or a love letter to the person you are today? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
