10 Things I Wish I Could Tell My Younger Self
10 Things I Wish I Could Tell My Younger Self
At 32, I’ve grown into a version of myself that feels confident, curious, and content, far from the self-doubt I wrestled with in my younger years. If only I could go back and share what I’ve learned! So, here we go.
1. You Are So Young - You don’t know it all
When I was younger, I felt like I had to have life all figured out. At 12, I thought I was an adult, and by my early twenties, I was convinced I had it all together. The truth is, I didn’t. And that’s okay. You don’t have to have all the answers right now. Life is a journey—and being open to learning and growing makes it all the more rewarding.
2. Asking for Help Is Not a Weakness
For so long, I thought I needed to do everything on my own. I wish I could tell my younger self to lean on others, whether it’s friends, mentors, or professionals. There’s strength in knowing when to ask for help and in realizing you don’t have to carry every burden alone.
3. Learn to Advocate for Yourself
Whether it’s with doctors, friends, or in your career, don’t be afraid to speak up for your needs. For years, I didn’t realize I could question a doctor’s advice or say, “I’m not comfortable with this plan. Can you explain it to me more?” You’re allowed to take up space and ensure your voice is heard.
4. Trust Your Gut
There were so many times I second-guessed my instincts, only to learn the hard way that my gut was right all along. Trusting yourself is a skill that takes time to build, but it’s worth it. You know more than you think you do.
5. You’re Autistic Girl!!
Discovering I was autistic was life-changing. Suddenly, so much about my experiences and challenges made sense. For years, I felt like I was living against the grain, and I wish I could go back and tell myself that there’s nothing wrong with me, the world just wasn’t built for the way my brain works. Embrace who you are, quirks and all.
6. Stress Management Isn’t Just a Mindset Shift
Managing stress isn’t as simple as making a mindset shift. For me, it’s been about making consistent lifestyle changes that support my well-being. It’s okay if this takes time, you’ll find what works for you.
7. Document Your Life, but You Don’t Have to Share Everything
I grew up in the era of sharing everything online, from Tumblr to Flickr. While connecting with others helped me through tough times, I wish I could tell younger me that not everything needs to be shared. Document your life for yourself, you’ll treasure those moments later.
8. Protect Your Magic
Your kindness, creativity, and energy are precious. Not everyone will appreciate or reciprocate your efforts, and that’s okay. Learn to set boundaries to protect your inner peace and keep your spark alive.
9. You Can’t Carry the Weight of the World
You’ll never be able to fix all the world’s problems on your own. Focus on the small changes you can make—those matter too. Let go of the guilt of not being able to do it all. You’ll make a difference in your own way.
10. People Will Make Their Own Choices - LET THEM!
It’s hard to watch someone you care about make mistakes, but everyone has to find their own path. Share your advice, then let go. Trust that they’ll figure it out, because they will.
Looking back, every lesson I’ve learned has come from experience, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without those moments. One thing I’m doing this year is embracing my younger self’s curiosity and creativity. On my mood board, there’s a photo of little Luna in kindergarten, a reminder to stay playful and open to new adventures.
