28 Things I Would Tell My Younger Self
This post was inspired by Ingrid Nilson’s recent video 28 Things I Would Tell My Younger Self and because I actually got to meet her today!!
I think a lot about the transformations that I’ve had in my 20’s. I go back and forth as to whether the beliefs I have now would have come to fruition on their own, but I don’t think they would have with the same level of passion. So as much as the trials and tribulations were difficult, without them I wouldn’t have known my own strength and potential. Nor would my abilities grow and expand to the same levels. I consider these things when I think back to the difficult times in my life and feel proud of how far I’ve come.
Here is my list of 28 things I would tell my younger self (28 things for my age, get it?):
1. It’s not the end of the world if you don’t get straight A’s. In fact, you probably should get bad grades sooner rather than later so you know how to recover in a more sheltered environment.
2. Don’t let anyone tell you what to wear, that they prefer short hair, or not to wear nail polish.
3. Be on your own timeline. Only rush if you will truly be late.
4. Embrace your ambition, but also embrace boundaries.
5. Your butt is beautiful. Period.
6. Your lips are not too big. Wear those bold lip colors and don’t think twice.
7. If the only reason you can think of doing something is “it’s just what people do”, or someone tells you “because you should”, take a step back and make the choice for yourself.
8. When someone says “I don’t have time for it,” more often than not it means it’s low on his/her priority list. Either find someone else or have the conversation about priorities.
9. There are people out there for you who will love your quirks and not tell you to change. You probably already know some - stick to those people.
10. If you have to ask yourself, “What kind of person are you to think that’s okay?” then run. Run quickly.
11. Bathroom stalls are a great place to take a mental break from crowds and during conference breaks when you’re dreading small talk at the group tables.
12. You’re an introvert. That doesn’t mean you’re shy. It’s why you can give presentations to hundreds of people and chat with anyone for a long period of time, but then want to curl into the blankets alone for days afterwards.
13. Start saving money. Now. And don’t touch it.
14. Get high quality shoes that are comfortable, even if it’s more expensive.
15. Go to the dentist to get your teeth cleaned, floss daily, and use mouthwash.
16. Become financially literate and work towards financial independence. Learn about investments, retirement plans, credit scores, accounting, and revenue generation.
17. Don’t compare yourself to someone’s highlight reel.
18. Try something at least once. You’re regret it more if you don’t try.
19. If you don’t know the answer, say so and be willing to learn.
20. Sit at the table without asking. And if someone tells you that you can sit at the table, don’t ask where - just sit.
21. When someone gives you a compliment, say, “Thank you.”
22. You can be grateful for what others have done to help you while also being extremely proud of how hard you worked to get where you are.
23. If you understand your emotions, they can’t control you.
24. Give your love to others because you love them and they deserve it, not because they feel entitled to it.
25. Before you move in with someone, agree on these things: what temperature to keep the thermostat, and whether you hand wash dishes or use the dishwasher.
26. You decide what defines you.
27. Pay it forward whenever you can. You will always be better for it.
28. Lean in to every opportunity to learn, take a risk, and be uncomfortable.
At the end of the day, there’s a lot we can learn from those more seasoned than us. If you could tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
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