An Open Letter to My Past Self

Dear Past Me,

They say you’re supposed to write about your past to foretell your future, and that’s exactly what I’m doing. First of all, I’m proud. I’m proud that you stuck to yourself even if it might have gotten you into some interesting situations. And I’m proud that you worked hard. Because no matter what anyone could really say, you have and will continue working hard because that’s the person you are.

Now, I’m not a life expert by any means, but I think some things need to be said here. Don’t be afraid to be brave. Step out of your comfort zone! Because I know you didn’t as much as you could have, and why not? It really doesn’t matter if the outcome is bad because it can just be a funny story to tell later.

Also, you don’t know what’s going to happen. So stop trying to figure your life out to perfection! Nothing is perfect and maybe sometimes you need to just go with the flow. If you keep planning and stressing then you’re probably not going to be too happy. And don’t worry what other people think about what you should do in the future, because at the end of all this stress is one decision, and that decision is for you and only you to decide.

Don’t be afraid to say no. I honestly need to practice what I preach on this one, but it’s totally true. If you don’t want to socialize or you honestly just don’t have the time to help someone then just say no. They should understand, and if they don’t then they honestly aren’t the best people to be with.

And with the saying no, make sure that you don’t sweat the small stuff. Your best friend will not hate you if you’re too busy to talk and your teacher won’t think you’re a horrible student if you miss one homework assignment. It’s okay. Breathe. Stuff happens.

I’m beginning to realize that people really don’t care about that embarrassing thing you did a year ago. They probably forgot or don’t care so why should you? And all those things that you didn’t want to do because you thought you were too cool? We should have just done them because why not? Have fun whenever you can.

Honestly past self, there will be times when I hate you (when you thought you were too cool to tie your shoelaces in Elementary school. Why?) and times when I love you (when you sang that chorus solo with confidence) but all in all, I’ll never regret you and the person you were and the person you’re going to be.