The holidays are an incredibly special time for a multitude of reasons; one of which is serving as a catalyst for self-reflection. Chalk it up to family togetherness, the spirit of giving, or even Christmas magic; but something about this season makes you stop and think.
For me, Thanksgiving and Christmas go hand-in-hand with nights spent curled up in my childhood bedroom, surrounded by my most special treasures from my youth. And naturally, that leads me to think quite a lot about where I started vs. the woman I’ve become today.
I can openly admit that the road to get “here” was full of twists, turns and a hell of a lot of bumps. I can own up to the fact that I was unfailingly hard on myself. I can definitely cop to wishing I made a few better decisions here and there. And I have a sneaking suspicion that I’m not the only one.
The good news? None of us are defined by our bumps. None of us are defined by our awkward years (except for the year I cut my own bangs with kitchen scissors. I deserve to be defined by that atrocity.) And all of us have probably landed right where we are supposed to be, even if we took the scenic route to get here.
But if you could go back in time and talk to the childhood version of yourself, what would you say? What words of wisdom would you pass along, knowing what you know now?
I would tell my curious, creative childhood self to embrace the character “quirks” that maybe made her a tad bossy on the playground, but also made her a powerful adult with a voice. I would inform her that “sewing” doll clothes and playing dress-up and pretending to be a reporter with a Hello Kitty notepad will serve as a catalyst for her grown up job; and to never stop dreaming it into reality. I would tell her that both her insides and outsides are beautiful and strong; even when she feels like they aren’t and even when she worries about not looking like everyone else. I would tell her that no one else’s timeline matters and to stop questioning whether she was behind. I would tell her she’s exactly where she’s supposed to be; wear she is now.
Linda, Creator of Trendy on a Budget
I remember that for most of my childhood, all I wanted was to fit in – not be so Asian (if that makes any sense). I grew up in a predominantly white town and was teased a lot – it didn’t help that I didn’t speak English when I first started school. Looking back now, I’d tell myself to celebrate my background and not be so embarrassed by it. I believe that all the teasing has made me a stronger woman. I’m so proud of who I am today and I feel that by embracing it, I’ve made amazing friends and been given some wonderful opportunities.
Follow Linda on Instagram at @trendyonabudget .
Amy Friel, Model and Maker
Follow Amy on Instagram at @amy_friel
Elizabeth D’Ascensao, Creator of On Tap for Today
The curious, creative, mischievous, kind + sensitive child you are will grow into a curious, creative, mischievous, kind + sensitive adult. You’ll experience and grow through things you can’t imagine now — things that will break your heart, things that will open your mind, things that will amaze you, things that will change you. But all your goodness will remain. Trust your intuition– it will never mislead you (even if you don’t always listen to her). Everyone deserves your respect, but not everyone will earn your time + energy. Be kind. Be generous. And stop skipping those naps (you will never get them back and your 36-year-old self is tired… happy, but tired).
Follow Elizabeth on Instagram at @elizabethev .
Brittany Leonor, Founder and Graphic Designer of Sage Glow Studio
Living your life striving for perfection is not all it’s cracked up to be. It’s ok to make mistakes, it’s ok to try things knowing you may not be good at them. All the times you will feel self-conscious, take a step back and realize that no one is requiring you to act like a robot. So let go of your idea of perfection and live confidently in your quirky little personality. It’s much more fun that way.
Follow Brittany on Instagram at @sageglowstudio .
Emily Fanning, Creator of Shell Chic’d
If you want to find love, you have to love yourself first. And to attract your tribe, you’ve got to check your vibe. You are lacking some serious confidence right now, girlfriend. As soon as you realize you have a lot to bring to the table, that more of the world deserves to know that bubbly personality, that’s when you will be introduced to the relationships and friendships that you have always craved. Spoiler: It does happen.
Follow Emily on Instagram at @emilyshell .
Mackenzie Lee, Creator of Six Feet in Heels
Stop and think. Wear you are now.
xx
Natalie
Natalie
You May Also Like
