I’m turning 20 in less than a two weeks and only have a year of college left. There are so many things I’ve been reflecting on recently, especially with a new year of my adult life on the horizon. I’m beginning to think about what my next steps in life will be, where I will go, what jobs I will take. It’s a never-ending series of questions to myself.

I think if you asked anyone if they would turn back the clock to meet a younger version of themselves, they would probably say yes. They would want to give them all the advice that they could, telling them not to make the wrong decisions, associate with the wrong people, take that trip, buy the shoes, etc. Anything that a person regretted would suddenly become a plea of advice to their younger self.

Since I’m close to ending one season of my life and beginning another, I’ve been thinking of many things I could have done differently. If I could write a letter to my younger self who was about to be a senior in high school, there are so many things I would say.

Dear younger me,

This is older you. There are so many things that I want to tell you. You’re about to enter a new season of your life, just like I am too.

To begin, I want to tell you to still enjoy being home while you can. Because believe it or not, there will be times where you desperately miss it. You’ll enjoy having your own place, but when something goes wrong, mom and dad likely won’t be there for you. That’s part of the learning experience as an adult. Sometimes situations are not going to be ideal, but you have to work through them on your own. Sometimes you will have to miss out on events and holidays; you won’t be able to see your siblings that much either. But mom and dad will understand when you call them crying out of frustration or text them asking for general advice. So don’t forget them when you leave.

You’re going to meet a lot of people who make an impact on your life, and it’s not always going to be good. Most of the world isn’t going to be like you nor will they actually like you. Don’t let it get to you. People will always have their opinions, but you don’t absolutely have to listen. Keep your head high, and don’t get down. Be strong for yourself.

Boys aren’t forever. You’re going to date around and meet people you’re interested in. Learn when to let them go. Don’t stay just because you think you’re always going to be happy with him. It’s gonna be better for you if you can let go early. Some day that special man will come, and he will be everything you’ve ever needed or dreamt of. Love all people from all walks of life, but know when you need to let go for your personal sake.

College isn’t going to be everything you think it will be. Sure there will be hard classes, less than ideal professors, nights out on the town, new people, and so many other things. But sometimes it’s going to disappoint you. Friends come and go. Professors will sometimes make your life miserable. You learn how to do a lot on your own. You will definitely struggle financially. But just because it will be disappointing sometimes doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy yourself. Take your time and smile at someone walking down the sidewalk. Keep up with your school work. Enjoy your time while you can.

I could write a book about all the things you need to know. But for now, know you have many great things ahead of you. You have a lot of living and learning to do. The pains you will go through won’t seem worth it at the time. But it will be. That pain will teach you so many life lessons. And it will change you as an adult. Embrace it. Embrace the change. I won’t tell you to change your choices because that will change who you are as a person. You’re your own person, and don’t forget it. Be the best you that you can be. I’ll see you again in a few years.

Love,

Your future self.