Things I would say to my younger self.
You know that question, "What would you say to your younger self if you could go back?"
Well, here's what I came up with recently:
1. Be proactive:
Don't wait for the world to hand you things. As I've grown older, I've started to realize that the things I've wanted are not as distant as they once seemed. Although they may appear complex or impossible, they are much closer than I believed. One thing that I believe slowed me down for years was overanalyzing. Analysis paralysis is a real inhibitor to progress. The worst part is how deeply it occurs within us, and others can't help with it. Eventually, we have to be the ones to get out of our heads and start making tangible progress towards what we want. When I was younger, I kept myself in this place for far too long.
2. Be patient:
This complements being proactive. As I've aged, I've learned not to dwell on decisions or mistakes for too long. I believe I overcame this years ago, but I sometimes find myself losing sleep over past decisions and being overly hard on myself. I should have been more patient. I also would tell myself to be patient with others. Other people are going through similar struggles, and some are dealing with even greater challenges. Robin Williams once said, we should be kind to others all the time because some people are battling demons we can't even begin to imagine or understand. I'm older now, and there's much truth in this.
3. Speak last:
Instead of insisting you're right, demonstrate it through your actions. I used to talk a lot when I was younger, and I might still do, but my message back then was different. I thought I had it all figured out, but I didn't. No one ever does, and that's the beauty of life. I recall being angry when things didn't work out my way or when I would become frustrated with others. I had a knack for saying what was on my mind. This tendency also hurt me when I joined the Air Force. My initial years were met with great success, and I still have countless awards to show for it. However, I can't help but feel I could've done a bit better at nurturing some of those relationships. Back then, if we crossed paths, I would tell you what was on my mind, and that was it. There's nothing more to it. Looking back, I wish I had talked less and listened more.
I'm sure there's a lot more I would tell my younger self if I could, but for now, this is what comes to mind.
What would you say?