If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?

We asked some of the wisest people we know what they would tell their younger selves. Check out their responses below.

Veronica Ariza

I wish you knew back then how strong you truly were. You carried so much alone, trying to make everyone happy while forgetting about yourself, and none of that was your fault. You deserved gentleness, softness, and patience long before anyone ever gave it to you. Read more>>

Cinthia Jensen

If I could say something to my younger self, it would be to take the chances, believe in yourself, let go of fear, and trust the process. The journey will be bumpy and far from easy, but in the end you’ll be proud that you tried—whether it worked out or not. Today, I’m committed to pushing forward no matter what challenges come my way. Read more>>

Victoria Mehrnia

If I could say one thing to my younger self, it would be to worry less about what other people think. You do not need to follow the same timeline as everyone around you and you do not need to stay in one place out of fear of starting over. Move away. Try new things. Read more>>

Jorge Millanes

If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, I’d tell him: everything you feel is valid, and everything you dream is possible. Growing up as a gay man came with a lot of challenges, not because I was afraid of reality, but because I wasn’t becoming who people expected me to be. Read more>>

Endrina Hernandez

Be yourself, like actually be yourself and do things for you. I grew up to be/do what everyone else wanted. At 26/27, I went through with a decision, that although was a decision of my own, I knew it was the wrong one in trying to make everyone happy and continue to be the Endrina that did the right thing. Read more>>

Valerie Michele

I’d tell her, ‘Keep being wildly you. That weirdness you think sets you apart is actually your superpower.’ That bold spirit, creative drive, and expressive edge were never meant to blend in. It all becomes the foundation for something beautiful. The way colors are mixed, risks are taken, and ideas are brought to life, none of it is accidental. Read more>>