What I Wish I Could Tell My 20-Something Self

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Ah, those carefree days of my early twenties. Back then, my biggest worries revolved around psychology midterms, but I was still a bundle of nerves, clueless about what I was doing with my life. Why does the thought of an undefined future send us into a panic in our youth? The uncertainty of not knowing my path turned into a source of anxiety.

Looking back, I can’t help but chuckle at my past self. I was so lost! Sure, I’m still stressed out, but now it’s a different kind of stress—one that’s steadier and less dramatic. These days, my fears include Justin Bieber, Snapchat, carbs, and of course, Donald Trump—because, you know, obvious reasons.

At some point in life, especially for women, there’s a shift that brings a new level of self-awareness and a sense of peace. Eventually, we figure out most of our lives while accepting the unknowns that still lie ahead.

Now, as a mom of two, a bill payer, and a home chef whipping up ordinary meals, I’ve never felt more fulfilled. I’ve come to terms with the fact that I’m not perfect and probably never will be. I’ve accepted that my metabolism is not what it used to be and that a good bra is crucial for my well-being. I’ve also learned that going to bed early is way more rewarding than late-night escapades, which only leave me with dark circles and headaches.

I’ve grown to appreciate the importance of fiber and high-SPF sunscreen. I now find joy in a little stretchiness in my jeans, and a trip to a flea market can brighten my day. I know my way around the real estate market and could easily recommend an awesome realtor. Oh, and I’ve become a fan of great gas mileage, double-paned windows, and the thrill of buy-one-get-one-free deals.

I’m happy with where I am in life, even if it might bore some people to tears. I don’t need validation from some guy in an Ed Hardy shirt or a group of millennial hipsters to feel fun. I’ve got a growing career, a wonderfully quirky family, and I can mix a mean margarita.

If I could time travel back to my younger self in that tiny studio apartment, I’d tell that girl stressing over her wardrobe to just grab something that doesn’t scream “Spice Girl” and take a deep breath. Seriously, just breathe. No one will remember which plain tank top you wore to what bar. Nobody cares about how many times you switched majors or your over-analysis of your Hootie and the Blowfish obsession.

I’d tell her that the stress of those midterms is nothing compared to the challenge of getting a child to eat their veggies. I wish I could tell her to stop worrying about pleasing everyone and to let go of irrelevant opinions. It’s perfectly fine to assert herself and to do so unapologetically. She doesn’t need to have all the answers or seek guidance from the latest episodes of Grey’s Anatomy.

I’d want her to know that life won’t go as planned, but it will turn out even better than she imagined.

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Summary

Reflecting on my twenties, I realize how much I’ve grown and learned from my early anxieties. Now, as a mother and a professional, I’ve accepted my imperfections and found joy in the mundane. If I could speak to my younger self, I would encourage her to breathe, let go of stress, and embrace the unpredictability of life.