I don't know what sort of epiphany I had the other day, but this idea popped into my head: What would my 28-year-old self say to my 23-year-old self? Regardless of how old you are, I encourage everyone to think about what you'd say to yourself five years ago.
Half a decade ago, I'd been married for less than six months, was thinking about purchasing my first home, and had just been promoted to management at a job I was determined not to turn into a career. So many things were knew and exciting, and I was impatient for a lot to happen. In fact, I'd dare say that I'm a completely different person now.
I know a lot of people who are 23, or close to it. They're recent grads with big dreams and a desire to get where they're going now. I was that way, too. I didn't know it all, but I thought I knew most of it. But now at 28, I don't think I even know half of it.
So, here's what I'd say:
- You can't imagine where you'll be in five years. Embrace that mystery.
- It doesn't matter where you'll be in ten years. Just try to be happy with it.
- You're going to start eating a lot of salads. And you'll like it.
- Religious stuff ain't that big of a deal. You write a lot about it now, but you won't later.
- Love your wife more today than yesterday.
- You'll love running again.
- If you want to find balance in life, discover how important both flexibility and stability are to you.
- There are a lot of fine lines in life. Learn how to navigate them correctly and you'll be okay.
- Social capital is everything and it always will be.
- You don't have a clue.
- Your passions will change in life. Sort of like best friends.
- Go see everyone get married, but don't feel bad if you can't make one or two.
- Get better at learning. Always.
- It gets a lot more fun.
- Ask for help and ask for advice. It's okay.
- It gets harder to lose weight and it takes longer to burn off a night out. So even though you want more, one piece of cheesecake will do.
- For the next five years, save as much money as you can, spend time with your family often, and make a list of every good idea that pops into your head.
- Keeping asking, "Why not?"
- In about 10 months, you're going to get food poisoning really bad. So, steer clear of the shrimp on Easter.
I can't wait to see what I think of who I am now when I'm 33.