Dear Anu,
20 years already! Remember when you said when you turn 20, you’ll be officially old? Well, that’s going to change. There are many adventures awaiting you in this journey called life. Some of them are happy, some of them are not-that-great, but you know what? You’ll get through them all.
Here are 10 things I’d love for you to know:
#1. There’s one thing you’re wrong about.
It’s not about your looks. Don’t start putting labels on yourself, ok? You’re unique. And if you want to get fitter, you can. You can find ways to feel beautiful. Don’t be unnecessarily cruel to yourself. Also, you’ll age like fine wine and still look 30 when you’re 50. Embrace that!
#2. There’s nothing wrong with being the only single one while your friends start finding partners.
It doesn’t mean that you are worth any less than they are. Enjoy the moments singledom can bring.
#3. Start putting up boundaries with others – be it friends, family, or people you meet along the way.
Life becomes much easier when you can put yourself first. But for some reason, this takes time to learn. It’s ok. You’ll figure it out when the time is right.
#4. It’s ok to make mistakes.
Contrary to what was taught and conditioned in you, making a mistake doesn’t mean you’re a failure. In fact, it’s the not trying that is worse than failing itself. Take any opportunity you can to try something new, learn, and grow.
#5. This is the perfect time to start learning to love yourself.
You’re not perfect, but you know what? No one is. You’re an important part of the world, with all your flaws and strengths. Don’t let other people’s opinions or actions take that away from you.
#6. I know you love going for walks and jogs.
You’ll do plenty of that in the future too. Just remember to do your stretches before and after your walks, ok? It seems like a small thing now, but what you do now will determine how your future body feels later on.
#7. Remember that life is not a bed of roses.
You will have to endure difficult times, and some of them will be pretty painful too. But you will get through them, you always do. Sometimes the only way out is through.
#8. Your timeline is not the same as everyone else’s.
Don’t compare your life to theirs. You’re meant for a different path, and you’ll understand more of it later. Some things are destined, and you’ll find out why things happen the way it did.
#9. Drink water. Lots and lots of water.
#10. You are going to experience things you can’t even imagine right now.
Life is so much more than just this world. You may not understand how things work for a while, but eventually you’ll get there. And continue learning even then.
One more thing:
Be kind to yourself. You’re a work in progress. I am too.
We’re still becoming the person we’re meant to be.
XO
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