Wearing J. Crew “Tippi” sweater, Daniel Wellington “Classic Sheffield Lady” watch, Banana Republic “Sloan” pants (buy in US | Canada), and Nars lipgloss in “Dolce Vita”. Mug from Le Creuset.
I posted an Instagram selfie three weeks ago where I listed ten pieces of advice I would give to the “me” ten years ago. I loved reading your comments and heard so much positive feedback from friends who read that post. Since then I’ve thought about other things I’ve learned in the last ten years and decided to expand on the list and write this blog post. I would love to know the advice you would give to the “you” ten years ago. Please share with me in the comments! I’m going to tag the following bloggers who inspire me – Alyson Haley, Daisy, Stephanie, Catherine Okereke, Jess, Vicky and Christine Andrews – and urge them to share their advice in a blog or Instagram post.
I’m 28 right now, and if you look at the first photo you can see a strand of grey hair, which was my first grey hair ever and appeared last December when I was getting ready for a girl’s night out in Vegas. I’m okay with it as long as there’s only one :). My mom says it’s better to have grey hair than no hair. Good point. It’s incredible to look back and see all that I’ve learned, all I’ve accomplished, and all the people I’ve been blessed with in my life. I’ve made a lot of mistakes too, but I’m stronger, wiser, and more understanding because of it. I like to say, “Look back in awe, look forward in faith.”
Advice I would give to the “me” 10 years ago:
1. Be patient.
I’ve learned that everything takes time. Just because things aren’t the way I want them to be right now doesn’t mean they won’t ever be that way. I was and am so aware of the gap between where I am and where I want to be. I am so impatient, especially with myself. But what I’ve learned is that as long as you know what you want (very important), set goals, write them down, and then do your best to pursue your goals, the rest is up to God (see No. 10) and there’s no point in focusing on what you don’t have.
I didn’t start my career working for my dream company (or even find a job right away), I didn’t marry the first guy I dated, and I didn’t put on eyeliner perfectly the first time I tried. But now I’m working for a company I’ve wanted to work at since university, I’m very happy in my relationship, and I can draw a pretty good cat eye in just a few seconds. One step at a time!
2. Take iron pills! Consistently!
I’ve tested low for iron for as long as I can remember. I eat very little meat and even though I put spinach in my smoothies and try to get my iron elsewhere, I have to supplement. When I feel fatigued for no reason and don’t have energy to do anything, chances are I haven’t been consistent with taking my iron pills.
Tip: Buy the expensive German liquid iron and iron tablets, they’re much better than the generic supermarket brand and doesn’t make you as constipated. (iron pills are not sexy…)
3. Go to bed by 11pm*
Even though I frequently blog past midnight…(do as I say, not as I do). This is something I’m still working on.
*or even earlier!
4. Develop and maintain female friendships.
I studied engineering in university and work in an industry dominated by men. I haven’t always been great at building relationships with women but it’s an area I’m more focused on now. I’m so thankful for all the wonderful girlfriends in my life. I’ll admit I’ve had some negative experiences with women and for a long time just found it easier to be friends with guys, but I don’t feel that way anymore.
As a Christian, my friendships with other Christian women are very special. They are my sisters in Christ who encourage me, keep me accountable, and pray for me.
5. Be disciplined with tithing.
Five years ago I listened to a message by Nancy Alcorn called “How to Bring Increase to Your Life.” (You can listen to it here and here). I had never tithed before or known how importance it was until I heard that message. I also recommend a book called “The Blessed Life: Unlocking the Rewards of Generous Giving” by Robert Morris.
I guarantee that you’ll never regret giving tithes and offerings.
“Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” – Proverbs 11:25
6. Take it easy!
Don’t be such a perfectionist and don’t be so anxious about everything. My brother Danny is an excellent example of someone who is easy going and who doesn’t get stressed out.
7. Listen to the word on a daily basis.
Put your favorite sermons on your iPod and in your car so you make the most of every commute. I love listening to messages by Joel Osteen, Terri Savelle Foy, and Lisa Comes Osteen.
“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” – Romans 10:17
8. Wait to cool down when angry
If my anger was graphed, it would look like sharp spikes that are short in duration. I’ve learned that before confronting anyone or saying anything, it’s best to wait. Sometimes it takes 4 hours, sometimes overnight. It helps me gather my thoughts, cool down, and often by the time I’ve calmed down I’ve realized how small the issue was to begin with. I’ve saved myself from many unnecessary fights and avoided saying things I would have later regretted.
Daniel Wellington “Classic Sheffield Lady” watch and Le Creuset mug.
9. Join team sports
Just because you’re done high school doesn’t mean you’re done with team sports! I have made so many great friendships through soccer. It’s also been a great motivating factor for me to exercise to get stronger and faster. Noticing the results of my training on the soccer field is the best feeling ever.
10. Continue to be amazed by the power of prayer.
In other words, pray!
I have seen amazing transformation in my life and in my family as a result of prayer. I truly believe that God is able, according to his power at work within us, to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, but we have to ask Him.
I love the story of Daniel in Daniel chapter 10. He prayed when he was in trouble but didn’t hear a response right away. Twenty-four days later, an angel appeared to him and said, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.” I just love that. His prayer was heard the FIRST day. Not several days later, not after a while.
“You have not because you ask not” – James 4:3.
I have so much more that I want to share but those ten points summarize some of the most important things I’ve learned in the past ten years.
What advice would you give your younger self?
See the original Instagram post here.
Outfit details: J. Crew “Tippi” sweater, Daniel Wellington “Classic Sheffield Lady” watch, Banana Republic “Sloan” pants (buy in US | Canada), and Nars lipgloss in “Dolce Vita”. Mug from Le Creuset (It’s my favorite. I have it in 6 different colors)