This week has been long and tiring but it is coming to an end. I started school again on Monday and apparently signed up for Folk Dancing (more on that later). Last night, I spoke on a panel to a room of around three-hundred people about my generation in the workplace. (more on that later as well.)

Right now, I need to go snuggle with my little guy and breathe for a few mins before I start my day. I really am excited to share with you the letter below. It wasn’t written by a stranger or a good friend but by a family member. The letter below was written by my Great Aunt, and I am so excited to share it with you.

Please make sure and check her site out. Especially if you are interested in green living and sustainability. You will not be disappointed.

Hey, twenty-something self,

listen up! I know it is hard to believe, but someday you will be fifty-something. On most days you will still recognize your twenty-something self, but you will be in awe of all the things that have transpired in those three decades in between.

Mark Twain wrote, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do… Explore. Dream. Discover.”  This is good advice. Don’t hold back if an opportunity comes your way.

All your dreams may not come true. And somewhere along the way someone will probably tell you that you will fail at something. But that person may be wrong, and you will never know if you don’t try. Whatever you decide to do, do it with all your heart.

It is possible, twenty-something self, that you will meet your lifelong soulmate sooner than you expect. You might not even be looking for him, but if he crosses your path, you will know he is the one. A true soulmate will give you the freedom to reach for your stars.

I know you are thinking about your career, but while you are contemplating what to do with your life, include the possibility of becoming a mom. The challenges are great, but having a child will change you (for the better) in ways you cannot begin to imagine.

Keep an open mind and never be afraid to try something new. An inspiration or a good idea can come from the least expected source. Remember to keep your eyes open; some of life’s best experiences can occur right around the corner.

Be careful how much stuff you acquire. You don’t really need that much. Someday you will want to downsize and it won’t be easy.

Remember that every action has a consequence. There will be profound changes in the world over the next thirty years, good and bad. How you choose to live matters. Be a good example and stand up for what you believe.

Try your best to love your family and friends. Whether they are near or far, try to include them in your life. They won’t be around forever, or for as long as you may think, and you will miss them when they are gone.

Take care of yourself. Eat well. Know that many a problem can be solved on a long walk or a bike ride. (People wear helmets now.)

Your great adventure is just starting. Savor every moment.

With all best wishes for a great life,

Your fifty-something self

Related posts:

1. Share Your Wisdom-Help A Young Woman
2. Merry Christmas To All And All A Goodnight
3. And now begins a new chapter…
4. A letter to my 20 something self: Eilis