We asked some of the wisest people we know what they would tell their younger selves. Check out their responses below.
Jill Lawlor
I’d tell my younger self that failure isn’t something to fear — it’s part of the process. You don’t have to nail the perfect idea right away, and you’re not supposed to. The messy drafts, the awkward first tries, the ideas that don’t quite land… those are the stepping stones to the really good work. Read more>>
Caitlin Walters
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be to never listen to the negativity or let it shape how you see yourself. You were always capable, even when you didn’t believe it. Don’t focus on the wrong things or people, because they only distract you from the good and the ones who truly bring peace and growth. Read more>>
Irma La Dulce
My sweet girl, you are already everything you’re looking for. You are love itself, wearing a body like a thrift store dress that fits better than anything expensive ever could. Don’t believe everything you think—thoughts lie more than lovers do. If it hurts, it’s not your truth, it’s just fear dressed up as wisdom. Read more>>
Rori Nogee
You are lovable during the in-between times; when not starring in a show, when there are no big announcements to make, or when you haven’t been productive. You are not your accolades. When you are sad or unemployed or just need to rest, you are still worthy of love. Read more>>
EWELINA AIOSSA
I’d tell my younger self to trust the process and be kinder to yourself along the way. Every step — even the uncertain ones — is leading you somewhere meaningful. You don’t need to have everything figured out at once. Keep learning, stay curious, and believe that your passion and hard work will align when the time is right. You’re doing better than you think. Read more>>
Genshu Price
If I could say one thing to my younger self, it would be to never give up. There have been many times I was unsure I could achieve my goals or that others would believe in me. But that external noise was never true because I chose not to give up. Read more>>
Aevin Kumar
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be, trust yourself and your instincts and don’t be afraid of what anyone has to say. It’s a reminder that growth comes from trusting yourself, taking some bold steps and embracing uncertainty. Read more>>
Molly Jones
I would tell my younger self to chase her passions without fear of failure. For so many years, I followed a path I felt was expected of me. I chose to please others often times sacrificing my own desires. Read more>>
Keishia Lewis-Crabtree
I’d tell her, “You were never behind,you were being built.” Every tough season, every quiet grind, every time you had to make something out of nothing was preparing you for this. You weren’t lost, you were being shaped for leadership, for legacy, for impact. And I’d remind her, “You ain’t crazy,you chosen.” The pressure wasn’t punishment, it was training. Read more>>
Betty Lam
If I could pull that younger, trying-so-hard version of me aside, I’d tell her: ’All those little things you’re self-conscious about, the ‘weird’ way your brain connects dots that no one else seems to get? That’s not a glitch; that’s your magic. And I know everyone praises you for being the ‘happy’ one, and you’re proud to wear that label. Read more>>
Melodythesuperstar
Hey Superstar — stop doubting yourself. You don’t need validation from anyone. I’m so proud of you — you’ve become everything you said you would and more. Take a breath, enjoy the ride, and keep shining. Oh, and look at you — helping and teaching young girls like yourself, just like you always wished someone had been there to teach you. You go Girl! Read more>>
