50 Top Things I would Tell My Younger Self – Life Lessons
As I marked another year around the sun during my recent birthday weekend, I indulged in my customary reflection on life’s journey.
Amidst this contemplative pause, I delved into ’50 Top Things I Would Tell My Younger Self,’ a collection of heartfelt insights cultivated through the ebbs and flows of existence. From hard-earned lessons to cherished advice, this introspective list beckons you to pause, ponder, and perchance discover a spark of inspiration.
This list of life lessons are the same advice I share with my kids.
The Precious Gift Of Life and Lessons
Each year that passes feels like a precious gift, yet it’s also a time for deep introspection and gratitude. Lately, I’ve found myself immersed in thoughts about my life, embracing the multitude of blessings and even the trials and tribulations that have shaped me.
Those rough roads I once traveled, filled with twists and turns, eventually led me to the place where I’m meant to be.
And as I look back on the path I’ve walked, I can’t help but wish I could impart some wisdom to my younger self. I believe we live on this planet to learn to be better human beings. Some learn quicker than others.
Oh, if only I could hop into a time machine and have a chat with that wide-eyed, innocent version of me! There are so many things I’d share, so many lessons I wish I knew then. Hey there, younger me! Here’s a glimpse into the top things I’d tell you if I could.
50 Life Lessons I Would Tell My Younger Self If I Could
1. Surround Yourself With Your Loyal Gal Pal Tribe.
Seek out individuals who share similar values, interests, and goals, and who demonstrate genuine care and support for you.
Look for friends who are reliable, trustworthy, and non-judgmental, and who make you feel comfortable being your authentic self. When you find them, hold onto them for dear life.
2. Cut Ties With Toxic People.
It’s okay to let go of toxic or negative people that do not serve you well. Life is too short to hang around energy vampires.
Hanging around toxic people is like trying to swim with an anchor tied to your ankle – it’s gonna drag you down. These folks bring negativity, drama, and stress into your life, and ain’t nobody got time for that!
Cutting ties with toxic people is crucial because it frees you up to surround yourself with positivity, support, and good vibes. So, don’t hesitate to kick those toxic folks to the curb and make room for the awesome, uplifting peeps who lift you higher!
3. Set Goals.
Take time to write down your goals. It sounds simple, but it’s the key to reaching your goals. Trust me, this simple act is the first step on your journey to making those aspirations a reality. Create a vision board of your hopes and dreams and look it often.
4. Shit Happens But “It’s Going To Be Okay”.
Life’s got a funny way of throwing curveballs when you least expect it. Yep, sometimes, stuff just happens, and it’s not always rainbows and unicorns. But here’s the deal: it’s how you deal with the “stuff” that counts.
So, when life throws you a curveball, dust yourself off, roll with the punches, and keep on truckin’. Because even when “shit happens,” you’ve got what it takes to handle it like a boss.
5. Set Your Boundaries.
Establishing healthy boundaries provides individuals with a profound sense of well-being, self-control, and self-esteem that resonates throughout their lives. When children miss out on learning this vital skill early on, it can lead to challenges and difficulties as we navigate life.
Just Say “No”. Repeat after me: “Nope, nope, and heck nope!” It’s okay to decline invitations, requests, and opportunities that don’t align with your values or goals. Your time is precious—spend it wisely.
6. Start Your Day With Gratitude.
Ever since I made the dedicated commitment to meditate and pray in the morning, it changed my life. It wasn’t until a few years ago I figured out the key to a positive attitude was to start my day in meditation and prayer. I now spend time in the moring thinking about how grateful I am for my many blessings. I wish I started this habit many moons ago.
Starting the day with gratitude opens the door of happiness.
7. Appreciate Your Body and Beauty.
Stop beating yourself up. One day, you’ll look at a picture of yourself as a teenager or in your 20’s or 30’s and wish you’d appreciated your natural beauty then. Beauty you didn’t see when you were young.
You can develop healthy habits of caring for your body, mind, and spirit at any age. Keep your body moving and eat whole foods and avoid sugar.
8. Wear Sunscreen.
The damage you do to your skin when you are young is impossible to reverse as you get older. By protecting your skin from cancer and accelerated aging, you will thank yourself later.
9. Be Yourself, Unapologetically.
Seriously, trying to fit into someone else’s mold is like trying to wear shoes that are two sizes too small—painful and totally unnecessary. Embrace your quirks and uniqueness, because that’s what makes you, well, you!
10. Tell People How Much You Care About Them.
It’s so important to tell the people we love just how much they mean to us. Because, truth be told, none of us knows what tomorrow holds. Whether it’s a heartfelt “I love you,” a simple “thank you,” or just a warm hug, expressing our love and appreciation can make all the difference.
It’s about cherishing the moments we have together and making sure the people we care about know just how much they’re valued. So, don’t wait for the perfect moment – seize the day and spread a little love wherever you go. After all, life’s too short for regrets, right?
11. Don’t Stop Learning.
Keep challenging yourself to learn or do something new.Life’s like a giant classroom, and the learning never stops.
Think about it: every day brings new challenges, opportunities, and discoveries just waiting for you to dive in and soak up. Stopping learning is like hitting pause on life’s greatest adventure – you miss out on all the juicy bits!
Plus, staying curious and open-minded keeps your brain sharp, your skills fresh, and your spirit young. So, keep that thirst for knowledge alive and never stop learning, because the more you know, the more epic life becomes!
12. Embrace the Adventure.
Life’s like a buffet, and you don’t know if you like the spicy chicken wings until you give ‘em a try. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and taste what the world has to offer. Travel as much as you can to see the world.
13. Record Conversations With Older Parents and Grandparents.
These recordings serve as precious keepsakes, preserving the essence of our loved ones long after they are gone. Hearing their voices and stories can provide comfort, evoke fond memories, and strengthen the bonds of family and community.
Moreover, recording these narratives ensures that future generations can connect with their heritage and understand the lives and legacies of those who came before them.
14. Fail Fabulously.
You know what they say, “Fail forward.” Failure isn’t the end of the road; it’s just a detour to success. So, go ahead, mess up gloriously, and then get back on your feet with a killer comeback story.
15. Words Matter.
Once spoken, words are like toothpaste—you can’t put ‘em back in the tube. So, choose ‘em wisely, my friend. They have the power to uplift, inspire, or crush someone’s spirit faster than you can say “oops.”
16. Let Go of the Grip- “Chill Girl Chill”.
Clinging to people like a koala on a eucalyptus tree? Yeah, not a good look. It’s okay to loosen your grip and let life flow. Sometimes, the best things happen when you release control and go with the flow. Chill-ax girl!
17. Slow It Down!
Life’s not a race; it’s more like a leisurely stroll through a garden. Stop and smell the roses, my friend. Take things one day at a time and enjoy the journey instead of rushing to the finish line.
18. Rejection is Just a Redirection.
So, you got turned down? Big deal! It’s just the universe nudging you in a different direction. Trust me, there’s something better waiting around the corner.
19. Work Hard, Play Harder.
Grinding away like a hamster on a wheel? Yeah, not sustainable. Remember to take breaks, recharge your batteries, and indulge in some well-deserved self-care. You’re not a robot, after all.
20. BREATHE!
Don’t hold your breath girl! Life’s too short to be in a perpetual state of stress. Slow down, take a deep breath, and remember that it’s okay not to be okay sometimes. Cut yourself some slack, buddy.
21. Be Kind, Rewind.
Kindness isn’t just a virtue; it’s a superpower. Sprinkle that stuff like confetti—on others and yourself. After all, a little kindness goes a long way in this crazy world. I was always a kind child but I didn’t know the extreme power of Karma.
Don’t forget to always have empathy as well.
22. Trust Your Gut.
Your intuition is like a built-in GPS for life. Listen to it—it knows the way, even when your brain is busy second-guessing.
23. Bounce Back Like a Boss Babe.
Life’s gonna knock you down sometimes, but guess what? You’re tougher than a titanium-coated marshmallow. Dust yourself off, chin up, and keep on strutting.
24. Be Brave.
Be brave is about summoning the courage to embrace life’s challenges head-on, even when it feels like the odds are stacked against you. Because here’s the thing: bravery isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the decision to push through fear and keep moving forward. When you’re brave, you open yourself up to new opportunities, growth, and experiences you never thought possible.
25. Laugh As Much As Possible.
Don’t take life so serious!!! Laugh as often as possible. Be goofy.
Laughter is the best medicine, hands down. So, find reasons to chuckle, giggle, and guffaw like there’s no tomorrow. Bonus points if you make snorting noises.
26. Be Flexible.
Remember that 5-year plan you meticulously mapped out? Yeah, rip it up and toss it in the air like confetti. Life’s unpredictable, so stay flexible and roll with the punches.
27. The Grass is Greener…Where You Water It.
Stop gawking at your neighbor’s lawn—it’s creepy. Instead, focus on nourishing your own patch of greenery. With a little TLC, it’ll be the envy of the neighborhood.
28. Live in the Moment.
Quit time-traveling to the past or future; the present is where the party’s at. Be here, be present, and soak up every delicious moment life serves you. Be mindful, it brings peace and gratefulnes.
29. Have Faith.
Having faith is essential in navigating life’s uncertainties. It’s easy to get caught up in worrying about things that haven’t even occurred yet, but having faith will help alleviate unnecessary stress.
Trusting that things happen for a reason allows us to approach challenges with a sense of calm and resilience.
So, let go of the worry and trust in the journey. You’ll find that having more faith not only lightens your burden, but also opens the door to unexpected blessings and fulfillment.
30. Passion is Your North Star.
Follow your heart like it’s leading you to a treasure chest full of chocolate. Your passions are breadcrumbs guiding you toward your true purpose.
31. You’re Not Alone in This.
Even when you feel like alone, remember, there are people who’ve got your back. Reach out, connect.
32. Money Ain’t Everything
Sure, it pays the bills and buys you fancy gadgets, but it can’t buy happiness. Focus on the things that truly matter—like love, friendship, and pizza.
33. “Me Time” is Sacred.
Whether you’re single, hitched, or raising a herd of tiny humans, carve out time for yourself. You’re the protagonist of your own story, so don’t forget to treat yourself to a solo adventure now and then.
34. It’s Never Too Late To Try Something New
It’s never too late to embark on a new adventure, whether it’s learning a new skill, pursuing a passion, or exploring a new hobby. Life is full of opportunities waiting to be discovered, and age is just a number.
So, don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Embrace the unknown, step out of your comfort zone, and dive headfirst into the exciting journey of exploring something new. Who knows? You might just uncover hidden talents, forge new connections, and find a renewed sense of joy and fulfillment along the way.
35. Comparison Is The Thief of Joy.
Your journey is as unique as a unicorn in a sea of donkeys. So, stop measuring your success against others and focus on becoming the best darn version of yourself. Who cares what others think!
36. Be A Role Model.
Let me drop some truth bombs on you: setting a good example isn’t just about being a role model for others – it’s about leaving a positive mark on the world. When you step up and lead by example, you inspire others to be their best selves, too. You show them what’s possible, you light the way, and you create a ripple effect of awesomeness that spreads far and wide.
So, whether you’re leading a team, a classroom, or just your group of friends, remember: your actions speak louder than words. Be the kind of leader you’d want to follow, and watch how it transforms not just others, but also yourself.
37. Make Your Bed Every Morning.
Making your bed might seem like a small task, but it’s got some serious superpowers when it comes to setting the tone for your day. Think of it as your first accomplishment, setting a positive tone that ripples through the rest of your day. Plus, coming back to a tidy bed at night feels like slipping into a cozy sanctuary, ready to recharge for whatever tomorrow brings.
38. Never Ever Give Up.
The most successful people didn’t reach the summit because they had an easy climb. They reached it because they refused to let go of the rope when the going got tough. Every stumble, setback, and obstacle was just another reason to keep pushing forward, fueled by their unwavering determination and resilience.
So, remember, the path isn’t always smooth, but those who never give up are the ones who ultimately triumph.
39. Change Is A Good Thing.
Don’t be afraid of change. Change opens doors and opportunities. So don’t be afraid to move or try something new.40. Make An Imprint On The World
Making an imprint on the world involves living with purpose, compassion, and integrity, and using your unique talents and resources to make a positive difference in the lives of others and the world at large.
40. Inch By Inch Life Is A Cinch.
My hubby was once told this and this advice is golden. Think about it….inch by inch, life is a cinch. It means take things one step at a time, and suddenly, everything becomes a whole lot more manageable. So, don’t stress out too much. Just keep moving forward, one inch at a time, and before you know it, you’ll be crushing those goals like a boss!
41. You Don’t Have To Win Every Argument. Agree to disagree.
Here’s a nugget of wisdom: you don’t have to win every argument to come out on top. Yeah, it might feel good to be the last one standing, but here’s the thing: sometimes, it’s more important to listen, learn, and understand than it is to be right.
42. Be Transparent And Authentic.
When you’re honest about who you are and what you stand for, you attract like-minded souls who appreciate you for being you. Plus, being transparent cuts through the BS and saves everyone a whole lot of time and energy. So, embrace your authenticity, rock your uniqueness, and watch how it transforms your relationships and your life!
It’s okay if people see you cry. Sure, it can be scary to let people see the real you, but here’s the deal: authenticity breeds trust, respect, and genuine connections. Tears are liquid courage.Don’t hold back those tears—they’re like emotional detox sessions. Let ‘em flow and watch how they wash away the stress and leave you feeling lighter.
Live your life with purpose, grace and joy.
43. Believe In Miracles.
Miracles do happen, they do. Never stop believing in them.
44. Get rid of “things” That Isn’t Useful, Beautiful, or Joyful.
Surround yourself with stuff that brings a smile to your face. Whether it’s quirky knick-knacks, cherished mementos, or just things that make you go “wow,” fill your space with joy-sparking treasures. But here’s the kicker: don’t go overboard. Avoid drowning in clutter by being mindful of what you bring into your life. Quality over quantity, my friend. So, let’s keep it simple, keep it joyful, and keep on living our best clutter-free lives!
45. Time Heals Nearly Everything.
Whatever it is that you are going through will get better with time. Time, my friend, is like a magical healer. It has this incredible power to mend even the deepest wounds and soothe the most aching hearts. You see, as the days turn into weeks, and the weeks into months, time gently eases the sting of pain and softens the sharp edges of sorrow.
It gives us space to breathe, to reflect, and to grow. So, even when it feels like the hurt will never fade, trust in time’s healing touch. Eventually, it stitches up the broken pieces, leaving us stronger, wiser, and ready to embrace life’s next adventure.
46. You Don’t Need To Grow Up.
You know what’s underrated? Staying forever young at heart. Who says you have to grow up and be all serious and adult-like? Embracing your inner child is where it’s at!
So, go ahead, play in the rain, chase rainbows, and laugh until your belly hurts. Being young at heart means seeing the world with wonder, finding joy in the little things, and never losing that spark of curiosity. Plus, let’s be real, adulthood can be overrated anyway. So, here’s to staying forever young – because age is just a number, but youthfulness is a state of mind!
47. Give Back- It Brings Joy.
Volunteering your time is a powerful way to make a difference in your community and beyond. Whether you’re helping at a local soup kitchen, tutoring children, or participating in environmental clean-up efforts, your contributions can have a lasting impact on those in need.
Plus, volunteering provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose, fostering personal growth and strengthening social connections. So, consider dedicating some of your time to volunteer work—it’s a win-win for everyone involved.
48. Live Like There Is No Tomorrow.
Wear your favorite jewelry and clothes. Live with intention and make the most of every moment. Whether it’s pursuing your passions, helping others, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, make each day meaningful and memorable.
Remember, living like there’s no tomorrow doesn’t mean recklessness or disregard for the future. It’s about embracing the present moment with a sense of urgency and appreciation, making the most of every opportunity, and living a life that’s true to who you are.
49. Develop Friendships Of All Ages.
Having friends of all ages is like having a treasure trove of wisdom, perspectives, and experiences at your fingertips. Whether you’re swapping stories with someone who’s been around the block a few times or learning the latest TikTok dance from a younger pal, each friendship brings something unique to the table.
Plus, hanging out with people of different ages keeps you young at heart, expands your worldview, and fosters empathy and understanding. So, don’t be afraid to mix and mingle with folks of all ages – you never know what awesome adventures await!
50. UnPlug Often.
Unplugging often is like hitting the reset button for your soul. It gives you a chance to breathe, to reconnect with the world around you, and to rediscover the simple joys of life. Whether it’s taking a walk in nature, reading a good book, or just enjoying a quiet moment of solitude, unplugging allows you to recharge your batteries and find balance in a hyper-connected world.
