14 Pieces of Advice I Would Tell My Younger Self

Recently I saw a post on Facebook, in my memories, that really took me back. Oh how life has changed. 

Lately I have been checking my Facebook memories. I noticed through a few posts how things have changed in my life and how I have changed as a person. Does this mean I am older and wiser? I started to think about what I have been through. Some struggles, some victories, and a lot of trial and error. While I will always be evolving and growing in life, I realized certain things I would tell my younger self, if I could.

1. Credit (cards)

I did not realize how hard it is to get credit. I wish my parents would have added me as an authorized user at age 15 to start building credit. They probably didn't think of it either!

2. Dating

While it sounds fun and the high school thing to do, it's really not. Hang out with friends more!

3. First Job

Don't be scared to work in fast food. Hello, Chick Fil A is where it's at if you really have reservations. Or check out a local car wash and nanny during summers!

4. Write things down

While I have a good memory, I wish I kept a journal growing up. It's amazing to see just on Facebook where I was 10+ years ago compared to now.

5. If it won't matter in 10 years, don't spend 10 minutes worrying about it now.

Probably the biggest thing I told myself all through college. There is no use in worrying in the present if it's not going to matter in the future. Get a bad grade? Retake the course. Crying over a boy? Who cares, you'll find someone better and you'll surprise yourself with just how great you are on your own.

6. Always be willing to learn.

You learn something new everyday, or so they say. It's true though. We all think differently and you'll be more successful if you keep an open mind.

7. Take more risks

Try out for Volleyball if you want. Go to church camp if you want. Do what you want and who cares what anyone thinks! You're the only one who has to live with the regret.

8. It's just a bad day, not a bad life.

I learned this the hard way in college. Each day is a new one and start the day thankful that you woke up and have the opportunity to make a great life. Do what makes you happy and don't worry so much about what everyone else is doing.

9. Hang out with your girlfriends any chance you can.

Most of my friends are moms or have moved away so it's hard to find the time. I did this all through college but I wish I had hung out with my girlfriends more in high school. These are the memories worth making.

10. Book the trip

Saving money is great but don't forget to live. Book the trip and worry about the rest later.

11. Always celebrate victories

Small or big, they are victories. Go buy Starbucks or that concert ticket to celebrate, YOU DID IT!

12. If it scares you, it might be a good thing to try.

Coming from the most anxious person I know (myself), this is so important. Being scared is okay, but regretting missing out is what's hard.

13. Patience is a virtue.

Growing up my grandma used to say this to me. As an adult, I totally get it. Rome wasn't built in a day and neither is life. It's all about the journey and what you do while waiting for things to fall into place that matters.

14. You're good enough.

At the end of the day, you are the only one you have to answer to. Do what makes you happy and live the life you want.