A few weeks ago on my birthday, I was asked, “If you could talk to your younger self, what would you tell her?” I took some time to really think about it and the first thing I realized is I wish I hadn’t grown up so fast! I remember wishing and dreaming of being an independent, working adult from the moment I stepped foot on my college campus. It’s not that I don’t appreciate my growth and maturity with age, it’s just I think sometimes we need to relish in the younger years, just as much as we appreciate the older ones! As far as advice goes, I have a few things in mind that you may be true for you, too:
Consider your perspective.
High school and college can be just as tough as they are rewarding. I think one thing that I truly could have used more of is perspective. Being an adult with true responsibilities and real world problems, I now understand that the petty issues I had back then weren’t much to sweat over. Happiness comes from within and it’s all about your perspective. Understanding that everything happens for a reason and that every step you take in life is leading you to your ultimate purpose is something I continue to keep at the forefront of my daily thoughts. If I could have had someone make me understand this back then, I probably could have accomplished so much more. It’s so easy to get bogged down with the negative things in life, but learning to appreciate your wins, no matter how small they may seem, can get you far!
Enjoy life.
I say it all the time, I wish I had had more fun in college. I spent too much time stressing about grades, boys, girls, and of course my future! I should have taken more time out for me and lived in the moment. There is nothing wrong with letting off a little steam by doing something you enjoy or even exploring something new for a change!
Find healthy relationships.
One thing is for sure, everyone isn’t in your life to stay, and many people do not have your best interest at heart. It is important to protect yourself and your feelings. Learn the balance of finding friends versus associates. Know how much you can share with those people. And most importantly, understand the expiration date for some people in your life is there for a reason.