Letter to the 25-Year-Old Me from the 45-Year-Old Me

Random advice to myself looking back from the future into the past

Photo: Author

A popular question on podcast interviews is: What would you tell your younger self? As I turned 45 this year, I am reflecting exactly on this question. I’ve written down twenty things I would definitely tell young Krista and highly recommend you consider writing a letter to your younger self too.

Dear Younger Me,

It’s me, the you from the future. You can’t believe all the things I’m about to tell you. A lot has happened. Can you even imagine what twenty years is? It’s going to be a wild ride. But wait! I’m not allowed to actually tell you the details. Sorry, but I can’t spoil it. Instead, I’m going to give you the best advice I can to prepare for what you will go through, both good and bad.

1. Accept that nothing is forever, so you’ll need to make as much effort as you can to cherish the people you love and enjoy every moment.
2. Stop and smell the flowers more often. I know that sounds cliché, but the world is beautiful. Take frequent, small breaks to enjoy nature and just “be”.
3. Stop caring so much about what others think or about things beyond your control. Accept that outcomes are what they are. Instead, just focus on…