Hi dear readers,
This blog post is a heartfelt advice to my younger self and to you—a list of life lessons I wish I had known earlier. It’s advice I’ve learned through experience. Life moves fast, but taking time to reflect helps us understand how far we’ve come.
With graduation just around the corner, I often find myself wondering, “What will my future look like?” The thought is both terrifying and thrilling.
Time is flying. Days blur into weeks, and months pass before I even realize it. It’s been hard to pause, reflect, and simply breathe. But today, I’m doing just that.
So here are 25 things I would tell my younger self—words of wisdom that might help you, too.
1. Don’t be a people pleaser.
You don’t have to say “yes” to everything just to be accepted. You are enough as you are.
2. Take every opportunity.
In high school, I doubted myself and missed out on great experiences. Don’t make the same mistake. You’re more capable than you think.
3. Be confident.
Having scoliosis and wearing a back brace in school crushed my confidence. But you will get through it and come out stronger.
4. Take a chance on people.
One bad experience doesn’t mean everyone is the same. Let others in.
5. Let go of toxic relationships.
Stop holding on just because you’re afraid to lose someone. Letting go opens space for those who truly care.
6. It’s okay not to be okay.
Crying doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’re strong enough to feel.
7. Don’t fear failure.
Every mistake is a lesson. Embrace failure as part of growth.
8. Be kind to yourself.
You’re allowed to not have everything figured out. Treat yourself with compassion.
9. Self-care is important.
It’s not selfish to care for your mental, emotional, and physical health—it’s necessary.
10. Learn to forgive.
Letting go of grudges frees you. Forgiveness helps you heal.
11. Let go of pride.
Don’t let pride ruin relationships. Apologizing shows strength, not weakness.
12. Express your feelings.
I was so shy, I’d avoid my crush entirely. Don’t hold back—life’s too short for regrets.
13. Believe in yourself.
You are capable of so much more than you think.
14. Stand up for yourself.
Don’t stay silent when someone crosses the line. Your voice matters.
15. Tell your loved ones how you feel.
Say “I love you” often. Time is precious.
To my Mama and Papa: I love you so much. Thank you for everything.
16. Every experience shapes you.
The good moments make you smile, and the hard ones make you stronger.
17. Wear sunscreen.
Start early! Protect your skin with SPF daily. Your future self will thank you.
18. Popularity isn’t everything.
Being true to yourself is far more valuable than fitting in.
19. Always see the bigger picture.
Sometimes, stepping back helps you find clarity.
20. Don’t rush love.
You don’t need a relationship to feel whole. Wait for someone who values you.
21. Be kind to others.
Small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
22. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
You’re not supposed to do it all alone. Asking for help is brave.
23. You can’t change people.
Focus on being your best self. Change starts with you.
24. Never stop learning.
Stay curious. Learn new things. Grow every day.
25. Stay grounded.
Never forget where you came from. Stay humble, and always be grateful.
Writing this made me realize how far I’ve come—and how much more I have to learn. Life is messy, beautiful, and unpredictable. But every step is worth it.
What advice would you give your younger self? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Love,
Sofie
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