A Letter to My Younger Self – Trust Yourself, Remember Who You Are

Yikes! My daughter just turned 20, and this milestone has gotten me thinking… Around this age, you’re released into the wild. And suddenly you’re making decisions that may have a profound impact on your future.

The stakes seem higher.

I wanted to write a letter to my younger self, in hopes that she might read it one day (I know, wishful thinking :-).

Here it goes:

Dear younger me,

Recently turning 50 has me thinking about how much life has happened and how it truly seems to fly by. We’ve had quite our share of exhilarating highs and a few (major) lows. And if I could have magically written a letter for you to read, here’s what I would say:

1. First, trust yourself. (A most important lesson in the letter to my younger self)

It seems so simple, but self-trust continues to be a lifelong, hard-earned journey. I wish I knew how to cultivate it within myself at a young age.

Trust yourself by learning to listen to your inner voice and lean into it often. You were born wise, and you know way more than you think.

Trust yourself to know that when you need help you will ask for it.

And when you aren’t sure of something, slow down. Take your time and allow the answer to come to you.

Also, know that sometimes you may absorb ideas from others and from the world around you. Learn to recognize them for what they are – not you.

Learn to trust yourself and your instincts when it comes to relationships. Your inner voice speaks loudly and clearly! That includes knowing when to let certain people in, and when to let others go.

2. Take very, very good care of yourself.

Ugh! I wish I understood this when I was your age.

What do you need – in mind, body, and spirit?

Dedicate time to learning and doing these things! Self-care comes in many forms. You may need time alone just to relax and zone out.

Get your rest! Drink more water. Slow down. Observe your thoughts – don’t react to them so often! Learn to meditate. Dance often.

In this crazy fast-paced world, you may be tempted to abandon yourself. Please don’t! Know that you are here to take exquisite care of yourself. No one can do that better than you.

Prioritize your well-being, always.

3. Always remember who you are.

You were born a tender-hearted, happy girl with that exuberant laugh and zest for life!

Please remember that you are the brave girl who overcame so many things. You were thrown into situations you couldn’t possibly have had the skills to handle, but somehow you did it. And now, look at you!

You are strong, kind-hearted, loving, and true. That’s who you are.

This world is complicated. Relationships, work, commitments, and family dynamics will challenge you! They will continue to change and evolve over time.

But don’t allow those changes to change you. You are a magical force of love who is here to do good, important things. You are loved, cherished, and adored.

Imagine these words being gently written near your heart. Because they are.

Love, Me

Did this letter to my younger self resonate with you? I’d love to hear in the comments below.

Ps: Do you want to work on an incredibly fulfilling project? Try writing yourself a love letter. You’ll be amazed at how powerful it is!

And for another inspirational letter to your younger self –  check this out!