"Advice to My 15-Year-Old Self: What I Wish I Knew"

As we grow older, we often wonder what it’s like to be a certain age. Being a teenager comes with a lot of challenges, like figuring out who we are, where we fit in with family and peers, dealing with social expectations and the huge influence of social media. And, looking back on my own journey, there’s one thing I wish I could tell my 15-year-old self:

Embrace Change!

Hey, at 15 years old, the world may seem daunting, and the future uncertain. Every challenge you face and every change you encounter will ultimately shape you into the person you are meant to become.

I know you're experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions as you navigate the turbulent stage of adolescence. You may feel overwhelmed by the pressures to fit in, to excel academically, and to figure out your place in the world. But within the chaos, I beg you to embrace change as a learning process and a necessary part of life.

Change can be scary, I understand, and trust me, it is scary! However, It often means stepping outside of your comfort zone and confronting the unknown. It's also the catalyst for growth and self-discovery. Embrace the opportunities it presents, such as new experiences, new relationships, new perspectives, and new you.

Don't be afraid to take risks and pursue your passions, even if they lead you down to unexpected results and sometimes, even to a different path. Life is a journey filled with ups and downs, twists and turns, and it's this alternative route that often leads to the most meaningful destinations. Allow yourself to explore different interests and discover what truly ignites your soul.

Remember that growth is a lifelong process. You won't have all the answers right now, and that's perfectly okay. Be patient with yourself and trust in your ability to adapt and learn along the way. Each setback you encounter is an opportunity to learn and grow stronger.

Most of all, don't be afraid to be true to yourself. Embrace your quirks, your interests, and your individuality. Don't let the opinions of others dictate your sense of worth or deem your light. Surround yourself with friends and people who uplift and support you, and never compromise your authenticity for the sake of fitting in (this one is not easy, especially at this age).

Now that I'm much older than you, I've learned that not all bad things that happen to us can cause dysfunction later on in life. Sometimes the good things that didn't happen to us can cause damage, and despite that, you managed it well. I'm not sure where you found the internal resources to deal with what didn't happen around you (the good things), but I guess it was hope. The hope you had given you meaning to keep going.

So, dear 15-year-old me, embrace change with courage and resilience. Embrace the unknown with a sense of adventure, knowing that every experience, whether good or bad, is shaping you into the incredible person you are meant to be.

With love,

Your Older Self.