advice to self stay motivated
Start writing a post
Life Stages

I Asked My 30-Year-Old Self For Advice, And What She Said Was Actually Really Helpful

Because then I'd know everything, right?

80
woman holding crystal ball

Here are some things I asked my 30-year-old self about the more experienced, patient, and wiser version of 19-year-old me. Because then I'd know everything, right?

1. Will I ever have it all together?

Define "all together." Because if having it "all together" means never being frazzled, always knowing what to do, and never feeling stressed, then probably not. But if it means knowing the purpose behind your actions, why you're doing what you're doing, who you want to be, and where you want to go, then for sure. But obviously, those things keep changing, so don't feel like there's only one set way of living your life.

2. What does it mean to be healthy?

Healthy looks different on everyone because again, there can't really ever be a set standard. Thinness doesn't necessarily correlate with health, always remember that. The most important thing is that you can eat the things you like, but obviously not all the time.

3. How hard do I really have to work?

Hard enough to reach your next goal, but never so hard that you don't feel like working anymore. Remember, breaks are life savers! No shortcuts to the good things in life.

4. What are the good habits that I should never give up?

Hard work, exercise, eating right, personal hygiene, reading, and love and respect for those around you. By doing these, you're essentially investing in yourself.

5. How do I know my career is right for me?

You've clearly put a lot of thought and research into it and gotten advice from others, so you did the best you could. Now all that's left is to try it out, really. One thing to always keep in mind, though, is to make sure that your career is something you wouldn't mind learning about for years to come.

6. I have this feeling that I need to be perfect at everything, is that okay?

Ah, the classic trap. I know it's hard, but try not to think too much about it. The important thing is to be your best at everything. And sometimes, yes, that means kicking back by yourself or with some friends. Perfection is fleeting. When we think we've found it, something changes and we suddenly need more to be "perfect." Perfection lies in contentment.

7. How can I be happy all the time?

Don't think that you can be happy all the time! I think that's where a lot of the issue starts because we have a hard time accepting that happiness isn't 24/7. You should always strive to be happy overall, and that will carry you through those rough patches. It's almost ironic, but by accepting the inevitability of discomfort, going through it becomes that much easier. Also, I don't even have all the answers. You'll get better as you keep living, so if you ever find yourself in a place where you don't know what to do next, keep on living, and something good will happen.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

58623
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

37796
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

959361
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

194404
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments