Words of Wisdom for My 20-Year-Old (and Myself)

home insemination Kit

As my daughter, Lily, prepares to pack her bags for an adventure in Paris, I can’t help but reflect on all the little nuggets of wisdom I’ve tried to share over the years. I often wake up in a panic, wondering if she’s leaving behind not just her belongings, but also common sense and good manners. I’ve found myself sneaking into her room at odd hours, whispering life lessons, hoping they’ll stick. Some of the advice I wish I’d grasped at her age includes:

1. Choose wisely. The decisions you make about your body, emotions, friendships, romantic relationships, and finances shape who you become.
2. Keep in touch with family. Moving away is a big adjustment for everyone, not just you.
3. Avoid credit card traps. If you can’t afford it, you don’t need it.
4. Get outside for some fresh air—and don’t forget the sunscreen!
5. Flash a smile at others; it’s a simple way to brighten someone’s day.
6. Always support kids selling lemonade.
7. Be truthful, but don’t use honesty as a way to feel better at someone else’s expense.
8. Stay kind and avoid burning bridges; you never know when paths may cross again.
9. Give back through volunteering.
10. Prioritize sleep at night, but don’t underestimate the power of an afternoon nap.
11. Use the buddy system whenever possible.
12. Remember that everyone carries their own baggage, even if it’s not visible.
13. Tip generously; waitstaff and kitchen staff are different.
14. Focus on the positives; it beats complaining.
15. If you’re unhappy, take action to change it.
16. Listen actively and practice patience.
17. Set clear boundaries with roommates early on to prevent issues later.
18. Take care of borrowed items; return them in the same condition.
19. Write handwritten letters to your grandparents and others; it’s a lost art that means a lot.
20. Send real thank-you notes. Texts and emails just don’t cut it!
21. If you lend money, don’t expect it back. If you do get it back, celebrate!
22. Embrace the adventure and be open to new experiences.
23. Don’t fear failure; it’s often part of growth and learning.
24. Keep an eye on deadlines; missing them can be a major hassle.
25. Remember: posts and photos online stick around. Use privacy settings wisely!
26. Keep a journal for both good and tough times; share when you’re ready, or just keep it private.
27. Fill the gas tank and replace toilet paper for the next person who uses them.
28. Seek advice from others, but don’t feel obliged to take all of it.
29. Read widely— whether for pleasure, knowledge, or hobbies, just keep reading!
30. Trust your instincts. If you wouldn’t want to explain your choice to someone, reconsider.

Lily has started to take some of my advice to heart, and while she may never be the type to chat on the phone often, I’m encouraged by her newfound interest in stationery and journals. Plus, she recently got a planner, which gives me a little peace of mind.

No matter what, I know she has the spirit and confidence to explore the world on her own. As I reflect on my journey as a mother, I remember the best advice I received: “Raise her to be a strong, independent woman who embraces life’s adventures.” If you want to dive deeper into parenting tips and insights, check out our other blog posts, like this one on the importance of planning for home insemination.

In summary, while I may have my worries, I’m proud of Lily for seizing this opportunity to grow and learn. Raising her to embrace life fully has been my ultimate goal, and I’m thrilled to see her stepping into this new chapter.