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.

Kennedy Michelle

I would tell her to not listen to the people trying to dim her light, no matter how hard it may be. My younger self would be shocked to see the shy person I have become. Read more>>

Kristine Bocchino

If I could go back and give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be to travel as early and as often as possible. Immersing yourself in different cultures, traditions, and ways of life broadens your perspective in ways that can’t be replicated in a classroom or workplace. Travel teaches adaptability, empathy, and curiosity—qualities that are invaluable both personally and professionally. Read more>>

Beth Mintzer

I would say to my younger self to just keep going. Keep making art, keep learning, keep living life that inspires you to create. Don’t let the fear or failing get in the way. Even if what you’re making you don’t think is good, just creating is good for you mentally. Read more>>

Alexandria Florent

Be exactly who you are and be proud of it. You don’t need to try and “fit in.” You’re making your own space to fit into. There’s no one on this earth who can do what you do like you. Everything you do is special just because you did it. There’s nothing you need to change about yourself. Read more>>

Raél Ba

Trust yourself. The answers you’re searching for are often ones you already have. The approval you want will only truly land once you give it to yourself. Don’t let fear make your world smaller—fear is meant to be met, not avoided. If you let it stretch you instead of stop you, you’ll realize the limits of your future were never set by anyone else. Read more>>

Vriddhi Toolsidass

I would tell my younger self to go back to your roots and trust what already lives in you. The things you grew up around your rituals, your materials, your ways of seeing are not limitations or something to outgrow. They are your strength. You do not need to become louder or more like anyone else to be taken seriously. Read more>>

Esther Andries

I’d tell her this: Don’t be so afraid to be seen. Don’t dim your light to make others comfortable. Speak up. Take up space. You are allowed to want more, to dream big, and to be proud of who you are becoming. Growing up in Belgium, humility was second nature — which can be a beautiful trait, but also one that sometimes holds you back. Read more>>