A Note To My Younger Self

Do you ever just think back and realize, “Damn, I wish I had known 10 years ago what I know now.” I know it sounds silly to talk about this since I’m only 30 but believe it or not, I feel like I’ve learned SO much that if I could have a chance to speak to my younger self I would have gave her an earful.

I don’t know why but I was sitting in bed today reflecting on a lot of different things and realizing that everything that happens in life is a lesson and you never stop learning. I guess those experiences make us all who we are today but there’s just a small part of me that wishes I could give advice to my younger self. So here it goes:

1. Life is good. Not always, but mostly. And when it is not so good, be assured it will get better. Trust me I know, easier said than done, but it always works out that way in the end.

2. Your hard work in school will be worth it. But come on, don’t kill yourself. Sometimes I look back at my High School/College days and realize how much I was driving myself insane. In the end yes your education is important but it’s the lessons you learn after that are life changing.

3. Keep exercise, eating well, and healthy living in balance. Schedule rest and recreation regularly. The older you get, the more you’ll understand why. I’m still trying to learn this.

4. You are on a journey, which means things will change. Even important things will change, sometimes surprisingly. But trust me, it is a good journey, and it’s worth every step.

5. Your parents truly love you and want the best for you. Listen to them. Trust them. Love them. Honor them.

6. Avoid people with closed minds, who tend to be negative.

7. Travel as much as you can, especially to distant places. This will add incredible dimension to your life.

8. Don’t dwell on how others have hurt you. Feel your feelings, but let them slip away. Then, move on.

9. Be grateful. Gratitude leads to more happiness and wellbeing. I whole heartedly believe this.

10. Don’t take yourself so seriously all the time. Laugh. Often. Laugh from your belly whenever possible, letting the tears run down your cheeks. Isn’t it the best feeling in the world?

11. There are some people in your life you will never understand, and maybe not even like. Make the best of it and don’t let them suck the air out of your spirit.

12. Accept yourself. I have spent many years fighting this and I’m not going to lie, it was extremely painful. You were put on this earth for a reason, don’t try to change who you are to fit a “mold.” The people who truly love you don’t see all the flaws you see. Learn to see yourself through their eyes.

13. Dreams do come true. But dreams are nothing without action. Dream it, then DO it!

14. You’re never quite as smart as you think you are, nor as rich or thin as you want to be. Just sayin..

15. Never forget where you come from. Let the past keep you grounded and humble.

16. When a door closes, leave it closed. There’s always an open window just around the corner.

17. If you don’t have a serious passion for what you’re doing, do something else instead. Life’s too short to work “just for the money.”

18. No matter how old you are, it’s never too late to live the life you’ve always wanted.

Like I said, I’m only 30 so I’m sure this list will change and grow as I get older but at the age where I am now, I definitely have learned SO much about life and about myself. I hope you guys enjoyed!

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Top: Tommy Hilfiger // Shoes: Tony Bianco // Pants: Ralph Lauren