Reflections of a Past Self: Valuable Advice for a Better Future

Looking back, I can only imagine what I would tell myself if I could go back in time to a week ago. In this article, I will share some of the most potent advice I would have learned the hard way: the importance of honesty, the pursuit of lifelong interests, and the value of taking education seriously.

Be Honest with Yourself

Truly honesty is the best policy. A lesson I took years to learn is that being honest with yourself and others simplifies life significantly. Trying to hide the truth or act dishonestly can lead to a myriad of unnecessary complications and heartaches. Eventually, honesty proved to be the key to unlocking a life full of unimaginable opportunities and experiences. If only I had embraced this earlier!

Embrace Challenges and Trials

Life is filled with challenges and trial by error. At one point, those challenges seemed insurmountable, like the idea of gaslighting or experiencing false beliefs (flighting). However, overcoming these obstacles is what makes us stronger. I am still learning how to explain instances where dishonesty or manipulation may have affected me in a public setting. The journey to understanding and healing from these experiences is ongoing.

Pursue Your Passion: Exercise and Lifetime Commitment

One of my biggest regrets is not finding a physical activity that I enjoyed and could stick to. Only in my late 50s did yoga become my 'thing.' While others may find joy in traditional exercises, I appreciated the consistent and enjoyable practices that didn't feel like a chore. Start with something that challenges you, but also provides consistent enjoyment and growth.

Take Education Seriously

I always believed that taking studies seriously led to better outcomes. I now understand the importance of going beyond the surface and truly understanding the material. Apply what you learn to your daily life, whether it's improving time management, enhancing problem-solving skills, or broadening your perspective. This level of engagement will equip you better for future challenges.

Embrace Personal Growth and Patience

I wish I had realized the value of patience, the constant focus on the good times, and the understanding that “this too shall pass.” It's important to remember that tough moments are temporary and that your strength often exceeds what you initially perceive. Simple practices like meditation, gratitude, and physical exercise can help you navigate through difficult times.

Lessons from the Journey

Regret and reflection are common companions on the journey of life. As I look back, I would have had multiple career paths, maximized my body image, and stopped trying to fit in. Regret is a natural part of life, and it should prompt us to grow and learn from our mistakes. I hope that next week I'll be smarter and more mindful, and that I'll be better at learning and growing each day. The key is to be patient and to never stop seeking improvement and understanding.