Dear Younger Self,
Today, I want to pause and share with you the lessons I have gathered along the way. Through my lived experiences, you can catch a glimpse of what tomorrow may hold and mirror for yourself a stronger, wiser path because now, you hold this information in your hands. Life is a beautiful gift, though it comes with its share of pain, betrayal, and confusion. Along the way, you will also encounter peace, joy, love, and endless opportunities. Each experience will teach you something valuable, if only you listen closely.
Becoming your best self
Your career journey will not always be straightforward. Learn from every experience, even the tough ones. Do not shy away from uncertainty, it is often the space where growth begins. Be bold enough to take risks and humble enough to learn from failure. With every challenge, remember: you are building resilience and carving a path uniquely your own.
Growing up,I wanted to become a journalist. At that time, journalists seemed like the most important people. The profession also looked very decorated—hahaha, I still remember the smile on my face whenever I heard the announcement of a news broadcast on CRTV. With excitement, I would sit in front of the television waiting to see my heroes. That love and admiration built my passion for journalism well into my university days. But life has its ways.
Love, Friendships, and Family
Dear baby girl,
Build healthy friendships, cultivate love, and honor family connections. Do not be afraid to walk away from people or spaces that no longer serve your higher purpose. Surround yourself with those who uplift, support, and challenge you positively. And always remember family is your foundation, grounding you in love, giving you identity, and passing on values.I have always been confident that I was loved and valued, that I had a home to return to. This is because of the special connection I share with my mother and siblings, and the friends I grew up with, and even those I know now. From the ones who challenged me to get the best results in school, to those who studied countless Bible lessons with me, and even the ones who embraced my free mind and spirit.
“The educated mind is the liberated mind.”
As a teenager, I had a very clear plan; “go to school 👉🏾 graduate in journalism 👉🏾 get a job 👉🏾then life goes on” . But today, I know many different things, and I am learning new skills I never thought I would need. Take your education seriously, but do not limit it to classrooms. Knowledge comes in many forms; books, conversations, experiences, and skills. Read widely, stay curious, and keep learning. The wisdom you gain will open doors, sharpen your vision, and equip you for the person you are becoming. Be critical and unconventional. Nations and history were not made by conventional minds.
Learn early to gain financial freedom
Back in secondary school, I had classmates who used to engage in petty businesses. They were learning, building capacity, credibility, and networks, but I didn’t. I barely paid attention to financial matters until much later. And guess what? You can already guess.
Every decision you make has consequences, and this includes how you handle money. Learn early how to save, invest, and spend wisely. Be disciplined and intentional, your future self will thank you. Remember, financial freedom is not about having it all, but about making choices that give you peace and security.
Your mental wellbeing Is NOT an option, It Is a must
When we lost our dad, I didn’t really mourn him at that time. I didn’t even cry. I was in so much shock that when the time came, even though I knew I needed to cry, I simply couldn’t. Years later, when I was in the University, the reality of his absence began to sink in. That was when I found myself crying most of the time. Looking back, I wish I had allowed myself to grieve earlier. I wish I had spoken about it, processed it, and healed from that pain in a healthier way.
Something else I realize now is that sports used to help me as a younger teen. I loved athletics, and it gave me an outlet to feel strong and free. But as I grew older, that habit faded. I didn’t know then that fitness was part of keeping my mental health balanced.Your wellbeing is your greatest wealth. Prioritize rest, self-reflection, and balance. Eat well, hydrate, exercise, and take time to reconnect with yourself. Be free and limitless, but also vulnerable when you need to be. Vulnerability is not weakness, it is courage. Live positively, boldly, and kindly, because your mental health shapes everything else.
Faith, Hope, and God
Times have tested me in the worst ways, but none as much as 2024 did. The narrative started to change when I gave it all to God, trusted, and held onto faith.So I am telling you now to always put God first. Life will throw storms and sunshine in equal measure, but your faith will remain your anchor. Trust Him, lean on Him, and let Him guide your steps. Faith will not take away challenges, but it will give you the strength and wisdom to rise through them.
Finally, my dear girl, live each season fully. Do not rush to grow older, and do not wish to turn back time. Every stage of life has a purpose, a lesson, and a beauty of its own.Walk with confidence, live with gratitude, and never forget that you are enough, just as you are.
With love and encouragement,
Your Older Self,Arrey Claudia.
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Send to [email protected]. The title of the email should be “Letter to my younger self”.