We asked some of the wisest people we know what they would tell their younger selves. Check out their responses below.
KAILYN EDMONSON
If I could say something to my younger self it would be if you could look into the future and see what you have become you can understand that everything you went through has worked out for your good. Your going to meet a great man and have the most amazing children. Read more>>
Kameron Sampson
Never give up! Always understand that a detour is redirection for something better in the future. There were so many times when I first started taking pictures that I did not feel I was good enough. I used to get so upset that I wasn’t getting recognized for something I truly shared a passion for but I never gave up. Read more>>
Willie Delacruz
Stop Stop Stop. Stop overthinking of what you’re creating is going to sell, stop thinking if people are going to like it, stop diluting your potential on who you are as a person to fit into these galleries, crowds, or into the right places. Your name is already in rooms you haven’t even walked in.Read more>>
Graylynn T. Viltz
Hey Skeeter or Hammer, Don’t let anyone bully you or make you feel small. You are enough—exactly as you are—and you always will be. One day you’ll understand that people don’t reject you because of what you have or don’t have, or because of how you look or sound. The truth is, it’s not your insecurities they see—it’s your light. Read more>>
Juliana Omokheyeke
You are beautiful just the way you are. You do not need a nose job. You do not need to alter anything about your appearance. What you are the most insecure about will turn into your superpower. Read more>>
Hailey Herrera
I would tell my younger self, ‘Keep painting and trust your journey. Every challenge will shape you into the artist and person you are meant to be. Your creativity is your gift and you should never be afraid to share it with the world. Read more>>
Doyin Fashakin
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: You’re enough, just as you are. I used to be so hard on myself. I thought I had to be perfect all the time, and I let people’s opinions weigh way too heavily on me. I really believed their thoughts somehow defined my worth or future. But now? Read more>>
Ashlyn Lea
I’d tell her, “You don’t have to have it all figured out right away — you’re doing better than you think.” When I first started doing hair, I was so hard on myself and constantly second-guessing if I was good enough. But every client, every mistake, and every win taught me something. Read more>>
Courtney Hayek
Life’s going to throw you curveballs—often. But it’s not the setbacks that define you; it’s how you respond to them. There will be moments when giving up feels easier, when the struggle feels like too much. But pushing through is what sets you apart. Most people stop at the hard part—don’t be one of them. Stay focused. Keep going. You’re stronger than you think. Read more>>
