Oh, there are so many things I could say to my younger self if I had the chance. I might point out running down that bank of rubble in high-heeled boots is not a good idea, it would certainly save the torn ligaments and months of pain. Or I might have to point out that the note that we were given as change in the Los Angeles' petrol station was in fact not $100 but a $1,000,000 Monopoly money note.
Possibly we had 'tourist' written on our heads that day.
But on a more serious note, what would I say to my younger self?
This is a novel one for me, because essentially I believe everything happens for a reason, and that these events shape our lives; giving us new direction. I also feel it is better to regret something that you have done than something you haven't.
However, I'm willing to be a little reflective:
To the 13 year old using a pair of scissors to cut off the legs of her jeans and make them into shorts?
- Close the blades of the scissors and put them on the floor. Don't leave them in your hand pointing towards your knee when you are adjusting your kneeling position. It will save your three hours in A&E.
To the 17 year old sixth-former who couldn't see a way through the bullying?
- Hold your head up high lovely, this is one year of a very happy life, and she is not worth getting upset about. Listen to your mum and she will help you. And the people who aren't there for you are not friends.
To the 20 year old girl who lacked confidence in her appearance and thought she wasn't the attractive one of the group?
- Take a long, hard look in the mirror my love, because you're wrong. You are young and vibrant. You've got a beautiful smile and sparkly eyes. Your hair is amazing. You've got a wonderful figure and your posture rocks. Have some more confidence in yourself and keep smiling!
To the 24 year old booking her honeymoon in Paris?
- Don't! Paris is cold at the end of December. Really cold! Plus you're vegetarian and will not be able to find anything to eat apart from pizza or curry for five days. This will result in you eating a dodgy crepe and having food poisoning, cutting short the end of your honeymoon. Go somewhere hot and sunny instead!
To the 35 year old who thinks she's got plenty of time left to have another child, and has listened to too many other women who have convinced her that she has birth trauma following The Boy's birth?
- They don't know what they're talking about, you're fine. And DON'T leave it! Just don't! Time will crack on and before you know it you'll be staring 40 in the eye and struggling to fall pregnant.
To the 37 year old falling asleep on the sofa last night?
- GO TO BED! It's midnight and you're tired!
What advice would you give your younger self?
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Tracey Peach says
Don't listen to the bully's you are a worth while person xxx
twopointfourchildren says
Enjoy the time with R and stop worrying what others think and what wil happen tomorrow. Talk every minute and make the most of it
Don't waste over Β£5000 on a new tarmaced driveway that would be ruined within 6 months – cowboys
Try not to take everything personally.
and on another note I am still keeping everything crossed (in a virtual way) that you get your wish
Tracy Nixon says
Don't have that holiday romance – you will regret it!
Alexandra Mercer (Life of mummy) says
Trust your instincts.
frances hopkins says
Shut once in a while!!!
frances hopkins says
Shut Up once in a while
Mumslittlepeeps says
That it's ok to cry.
Follow your dreams
Jen aka The Mad House says
I would tell her everything is for a reason and all the things she goes through shape her to be the person she is today. SO all in all nothing, as I wouldn't change a single thing, even the heartache and the hard times.
OneDad3Girls says
Enjoy each and every moment and save money you'll need it
Corinne says
It will be OK.
Tired Mummy of Two says
I would say "Dont eat all the cakes, kebabs, pizzas and all the other junk food because it will come back and haunt you for years!"
Amanda says
Don't let troubles make you forget you can still have fun.
Ashleigh Allan says
Don't worry so much!
Elizabeth (Liz) Briggs says
I would tell my younger self – Enjoy every moment, take more photos, go to university, go to concerts and festivals, spend more time with your grandparents whilst you can, don't worry about what (you think!) others are thinking about you, you are NOT Fat!
Colette B says
You can only spend it once!
Debbie says
Oh lovely, I love this post, it is so difficult to see our way through when those things really are such big things at the time. Now, I keep having to say to myself that in a few months this will have just been a blink of the eye, but it is so difficult when you are living every moment. I hope you have found yourself enough to find the time to appreciate you. You are amazing.
Debbie says
I wish my younger self had understood a parent's unconditional love. And that I needed to forgive myself for the mistakes I made, not worry about them forgiving, forgiveness had never been a part of their consideration. They really did just only ever want me to be happy- and no matter how many time they told me I never believed them!
life as our little family says
I love this post … here goes
To the 12 year old girl – your parents are splitting up, the next four years are going to be incredibly hard but things will get easier. Oh and hide the brandy bottle from your broken mother.
To the 18 year old girl – it doesn't matter that you decided education wasn't for you, you will go on to have a very successful career that didn't require a higher education after all.
To the 30 year old about to be married – take that pregnancy test, you always said you were going to on your wedding eve however you didn't. If you had you would have found out that you were 8-weeks pregnant and what a great announcement that would have been!
To the 34 year old who is so undecided about her new blog design – go with your gut!
KA x
tamalyn roberts says
dont date that idiot for 5 years as a teenager, ignore and walk away ha ha
Carolin says
Sometimes other people just mean well, they want to help, not criticise you x
TheBoyAndMe says
I could do with remembering that!
wendy procter says
You will make mistakes but you will learn from them
Katie says
Great read il have to write one for myself π
esther james says
Take better care of yourself
Lynsey Buchanan says
Study and get qualifications
Mummy Glitzer says
I am another great believer of everything happens for a reason and shapes you as a person. The one thing I would say to my younger self at 18/19/20, appreciate your Mum and make sure she knows how much you love her, you have a lot less time with her than you think.
Cathy Glynn says
Live, learn and love x
laura banks says
don't start smoking as you will never quit and keep giving reasons as to why you cant
Monika says
To my 13 year old self:
Do NOT eat all that rice pudding, don't listen to your mum and dump that guy you are dating, he's not worth spending the next 7 years with.
Amanda Walsh says
Your 16, it isnt love, hes just a boy, better things are around the corner π
anna says
I'd love to go back and show my younger self how life has worked out, and that everything would be okay (I had a lot of difficult times)
chantelle hazelden says
to my 15 year old self. stop caring what other people think you look like, you are beautiful how you are.
liveotherwise says
It's not you.
Donna@MummyCentral says
I'd tell her to start to believe in herself and stop wanting to be liked by everyone (easier said than done)
Verily Victoria Vocalises says
Please stop flogging a dead horse….some people just aren't worth it.
Jo Laybourn says
Stop worrying! You will meet Mr Right and have two beautiful, wonderful sons……everything you've always wanted x
Julie Roo says
I would tell myself to run away earlier. Run and don't look back.
Stephanie Coals says
Do what you want to do with your life and don't take the path that others want for you just to make them happy – do what makes you happy!
Nickie OHara says
"Don't step out from between those buses"
Emily P in DC says
You are not your school accomplishments. The things that seem like the end of the world right now will not matter at all in the future. Never say no to cuddles with your little boy (or your husband)!
Leanne Lunn says
Try hard at school and stay on and get qualifications.
Emmys Mummy says
Don't let the Bullies make you ill, that time spent in hospital really wasn't worth it. They haven't changed and are still bullies but you are better!
Jenna Parrington says
I would tell myself not to take life too serious and enjoy being young! You grow up way too quick!
Honest mum says
Oh darling, such a touching post, loved it. To always go with my gut , sorry about your stint in A & E and Paris is cold in the winter (eek about the food poisoning) too but all these experiences shape us, hugs x
Emma The Mini Mes and Me says
To treat others how you wish to be treated and don't be a doormat. Also to ensure nobody treats me badly and to always do what makes me feel happy regardless of what others may say xx
Donna Kellogg says
Trust your Gut it is always right
mellissa williams says
Enjoy your youth when you can and don't worry!
kellyjo walters says
well done, you couldn't have done any better
Jo says
Join slimming world & loose the weight b4 you have kids. And also being size 12 won't make you as happy as you think it will!
kellyjo walters says
well done you done a fab job
Mandy Waller says
Not to worry about what other people think
Emma says
I'd tell myself that I'm not big boned and it is possible to be a size 12, and not to start smoking.
Mum Reinvented says
Not to care so much what other people think and to trust my instincts
Eileen Teo says
Travel more before have kids
Grace @ Eats Amazing says
Your comment about bullying rang very true. To my 15 year old self – don't try to change, don't try to fit in, be you and be proud to be you. x
Eliza_Do_Lots says
That inner voice is almost always right. Trust it more often.
Karin Joyce says
I would tell my 27 year old self to NOT go on that date with that emotionally unavailable Redneck who would waste 2 years of your life and give you nasty flashbacks for the rest of your life! Bleurgh!
Karin xx
Jayne T says
Stop waiting for tomorrow and enjoy each day as it comes, youβll never be this young again and you look fantastic.
Rebecca says
Take that trip to Rome or Goa or somewhere exciting – doesn't matter how much it costs you'll never get chance once you have kids.
Leanne V McKenna says
That the right person will come along one day so stop worrying! Live life and be young
kayleigh Bates says
I love this post. I'd tell myself that it will all work out in the end. You'll get over him and be ridiculously happy with your husband and children
Laura Anne Farnworth says
Stop worrying – it will all be okay.
Belinda Matthews says
Trust more, let people in
Emily Smith says
Be yourself and don't worry about what others think.
Lucinda Barton says
Deep breath, it all works out perfectly, not as planned but perfect none the less
William Gould says
DO NOT start smoking, and save AT LEAST 10% of everything you earn. Then you could retire before 60 and not 66 as I have to!
TheBoyAndMe says
That is excellent advice! Wish I'd thought of that.
Sue Tyler says
When you get that job when you're 19 that means working away from home for 6 weeks don't turn it down. Don't be a wimp! You'll miss the chance of being in at the start of something that's huge in the age of technology.
TheBoyAndMe says
Oh now I'm intrigue Su, DM me and tell me what it is?
Alison says
Have confidence in yourself and don't be afraid to speak out for what you believe in. If an opportunity comes along take it!
welshmumof3boys says
Don't worry so much about other's opinions of you, you need to have more self confidence.
Pippa Ainsworth says
Have the confidence to trust your heart, it will keep you on a truer path than your head.
Anne Dalzell says
Don't waste your tears on Paul/Stephen/Gareth – you'll find the one that loves you completely.
Elaine Livingstone says
learn to think before you open your mouth and shove your big foot in it. That your daughter who was given less than 6 hrs to live at 4 weeks old and spent 13 years of her life in and out of hospital will grow up to be an amazing woman so dont spend hours/weeks/months/years worrying about her
Mary Chez says
Be more confident
Christina Curtis says
Your stronger than you think. Save money when you can and enjoy the ride.
Caroline says
Everything will work out and if it doesn't then it wasn't meant to be:)
Jo Bryan says
You are perfect just as you are.
Danielle Graves says
To the 16 year old me who was desperate to be loved and so in a terrible relationship I would say speak out, don't be afraid to tell people what is happening and ask for help
To the 22 year old me I would say like yourself, you are lovely and you deserve to be happy
To the 25 year old me I would say don't be afraid to admit that mummyhood isn't exactly how you pictured it. PND is nothing to be ashamed of.
TheBoyAndMe says
I hope things have settled down for you now, and have the happy you wished for your 22 year old self?
Tracy C says
To me of the last 5 or 6 years – Remember it's true that life is what happens when you're making other plans, just get on and do things.
And to me of just under 5 years ago, never pay too much attention to doctors. They tend to tell you the worst, you will find time and again that beautiful girl proves them all wrong.
Danielle.a says
You will find the man of your dreams and good for you, for not giving in to peer pressure
Amy Rowlands says
Go to school stop copying what everyone else is doing, it's not cool to miss school. Study hard and get better grades
irene gilmour says
dont get any loans
Kara says
Follow your dreams and don;t let your parents dictate your path although they were right about that boy!
Kylie says
21 is not on the shelf you don't need to marry him, you are young, beautiful and smart, travel, take risks, learn but just don't do it.
Yes 25 is very young to get divorced but you are in a violent marriage and have to do it, yes mum will I say I told you so for the next 20 years, but that's ok.
Dont second guess it, the move to England will be the best thing you have ever done.
Oh and to my 8 year old self -In the future you won't have to dial numbers on a phone. You won't need a phone book or an address book or to memorise numbers. We will all have little boxses that have touch screens and everything you ever need to know contained inside them. Marvellous!
Hannah Bee Griffin says
Don't marry the first guy you fall in love with, he is good for nothing,lazy and nasty
maria molly taylor says
get married, have babies and buy a house while you're young, there is life after 40 π
BECCA STAPLES says
Never take family for granted, you never know when it will be there last day x
sandralynn ralph says
stick up for yourself…dont let them walk all over you
christine taylor says
Don't waste time worrying, it doesn't get you anywhere and can't change anything x
Ness Gorton says
Be true to yourself and don't look back with any regrets.
Greig spencer says
work harder and you should move to blackpool!
Lynne OConnor says
Take full advantage of the social life at university. Don't go home at weekends to spend it with a boyfriend who isn't worth it
Alison Johnson says
Not all technology belongs to your brother! Learn more, study harder & relax more.
Alex Telford says
Lovely post,
To my 8 yr old self – don't leave your homework until the last minute, it will become a tricky habit to break later in your education.
To my 17 year old self, although he has your best interests at heart, do the a levels and degree modules that you want to do, not the ones dad thinks Will be the best for your career, you need to enjoy what you're doing to have the motivation to do it.
To my 18 yr old self – make more of an effort with your friends, rather than your boyfriend. You'll end up marrying him, so have a lifetime for cosy nights in with dvds, but you'll miss that special relationship with your friends.
To my 21 yr old self, go to America the summer you graduate, you will both get jobs and won't have another chance for a three week break. Before you know it 5 years will have passed and you will have had a baby and will have missed the chance. (Maybe when you retire?!?)
To 23 yr old self. It's your wedding, not your mil' s, do what you want, leave when you want to. Enjoy it, don't spend the day worrying about what people thought of it!
Emily Ryan says
God, what wouldn't I say?
I suppose I'd tell my younger self that no matter how bad things got or how terrible the people in my life were going to be, everything will be worth it eventually. And to ditch that horrid woman who called herself my mother. What a waste of time! I'd urge myself to move into my own place and give all men a wide berth. I'd tell myself to travel and find a way to try to eliminate insomnia.
Mostly I'd tell myself that tomorrow turns out ok, despite how long it takes to get there and how much suffering is endured along the way. And that I'm sorry about August 2006. Some things, no matter how much you want them, are outside of your control.
Louise says
Choose what is right not what is easy
LUCY BISHOP says
I'd tell myself to lose weight and get fit in my teens instead of waiting until my late twenties x
Jenny says
Oh gosh there is so much I would love to tell her… hahaha Probably mostly don't be a people person be your own person! Would have had more fun that way!
clair downham says
believe in yourself
Louise says
Do what makes you happy if life x
Saba says
believe in yourself!!
Tammy knowles-smith says
don't be scared to ask for help after having JR post natal depression is nothing to be ashamed of and despite what certain family members tell you he won't be taken away for admitting you're struggling.
Liska @NewMumOnline says
I would seriously tell my younger self to stay away from sugar. x
Mrs McG says
I would tell myself to go to University!
Jen @mymummyspennies says
Oh gosh that's a toughie isn't it? I always tell myself not to have regrets as every decision i've made has led to me being where I am today. However I would tell my teen-aged self that being grown up isn't all it's cracked up to be, I would encourage her to enjoy the carefree time and not wish it all away as the time will come where she wishes she made more of it.
Lisa Savage says
Thank you so much for this. It's inspired me to write my own letter to a 17 year old me. If only we could go back huh? Great post!
Dawn F says
Don't give up because there is loads of happiness ahead.:)
Rebecca Phillips says
unavoidable situations will seem worse in your head than when they actually happen!
Julia Plant says
Be more confident!
Hannah Staveley says
Be a midwife
Keri Jones says
Wear a dress/skirt once in a while, they suit you! π x
tracy sinclair says
Life really is too short, there's a big wide world out there, go explore it!
@goriami says
Don't be afraid to try, be brave and you will fly.
Anthony Harrington says
Don't worry about the small things
christine shelley says
enjoy your teenage years theyre gone in a flash
Heather Haigh says
Do what you really want to do, not what is expected of you.
Angela Fitzjohn says
Have confidence in yourself, do not listen to negative nasty comments, work hard and save hard, but most of all be happy with who you are, be kind to others, and smile, enjoy your life, you are only here once, make the most of it.
Lynda Jones says
Make the most of your school days – the more you learn the more you earn
Zoe G says
Always listen to advice even if you don't want to
Alison Joyce says
What you own is not what you are.
Jo Richards says
Choose a different path and follow your heart
Mary Heald says
Think before opening your mouth
Peter says
Nothing is as daunting as it first seems when you get into it.
nicci cowdell-murray says
id say when the loud mouth show off shows you some attention , dont agree to go on a date with him !!! theres much better fish out there in the sea so dont settle for the first one to show interest !!!
Lorna Kennedy says
Trust your instincts!
Stephanie Tsang says
I would tell my younger self to never give up, experience as much as you can and never ever settle for second best.
Victoria says
believe in yourself and take chances π
Amelia Kennedy says
Don't start smoking – you've no idea how hard it is to try and give up! Also, save more and don't squander the cash.
Barbara Bunning says
aged 7 – don't try and ice skate on that piece of glass as it will leave your legs scarred forever
aged 14 – Don't break your heart over your first love, much better will follow
aged 21 – Cherish every moment of your first born and the 2 more that follow as they grow up so quick!
Elaine Savage says
Worrying won't solve anything
Lisa Everaert says
Use your own judgement before listening to others.
Emma Birley says
Probably the one main thing would be to learn how to drive, because you'll absolutely hate having to get the bus to and from work everyday! And you'll loathe that you can't just decide to go somewhere at the last minute, as it's constant planning for when to get a bus *grumble grumble* π
Teresa Lee says
Don't worry so much about what others might think about you
Rosalind Sargent says
I would say enjoy life to the full and have loads of fun because life can sometimes be to short
paul martin says
Listen to mum she does know best
glenn hutton says
Go to uni then travel the world for a couple of years before settling down…
Lorraine Tinsley says
Save, save save and don't spend, spend, spend!!!
Lynne Durkin says
Enjoy life! Don't stress over things you can't influence x
Stephanie Lear says
Hey younger self, stop stressing the small stuff!
Kat Lucas says
I would say to travel more before settling down
Dominic Barbe says
Find someone a bit older, a bit wiser than you; someone who really knows how to LISTEN. And talk to them – about everything.
Amy PJ says
Don't let the bullies get to you!
Paul says
I'd tell my younger self to try and be a bit more outgoing.
EMMA WALTERS says
save more money before the kids come along
Andrew Petrie says
You have a lot to learn. To start with don't trust anyone.
sue hodges says
just give it a go – be brave
SARAH WILLIAMS says
stay on at school and study to become a vet
Robert Stirk says
Don't be afraid, and be more confident
lynn mitchell says
you will have a fantastic live so enjoy it
David Walker says
Hello younger self
Ane S says
Have loads of fun and make memories!
Susan Hall says
Concentrate at school
Mary says
Remember, the only requisite for you to achieve anything is to want it badly enough – and believe. It may not happen immediately, but it will happen.
hannonle (alison) says
Join some after school clubs. It's not healthy to only know girls.
Rob Griffiths says
DONT Start smoking
Justine Hughes says
Not to be in such a rush to grow up.
justine meyer says
To my 20 year old self – dump the fiance who has just got someone else pregnant you are much better than this
Alana Walker says
Don't have your braces taken off too early and continue with your Spanish studies.xx
Sarah-Jane Laycock says
Never stop believing in yourself
laura jayne bates says
i would say remember your parents do know best
Lorraine G says
Don't smoke and don't get drunk.
melissa manning says
Don't get so hooked up over that boy, he's not "The One!"
NATALIE GOATLEY says
Stop thinking you know it all your making yourself look stupid lol
Kimberley Cox says
Enjoy it whilst you can
Linda Toth says
be yourself all the time
Michaela Britton says
Don't change anything, just enjoy the ride
abigail edkins says
stick up for yourself more
Fiona K says
I would say do a degree to enable you to acquire enough points to emigrate to Australia
Jessica Wilde says
Don't ever start drinking alcohol – it will get you into so many places you don't want to be! Easier not to start, than to give it up later in life…
Find ways of developing your self-confidence: it's easier at your age than it is at 29!
Mo Ade says
You know, things will work out in the end. Chill and enjoy where you are at right now. You don't know the future but you know who holds the future in His hands, this is more than enough to feel secure about what lies ahead. You'll see, you'll smile loads even though there'll be some tears too.
Caroline Clarke says
I would tell my younger self to be myself and not who I think others want me to be.
Mrs Rachel Heap says
work harder at school and get a proper job!
sheaw says
For the love of leather, MOISTURIZE AND USE SUNSCREEN.
sian hallewell says
To me at 16, choose the subjects you love and enjoy for A level- you'll probably end up in univercity with a job you love!
To me at 18, STOP, do not be an idiot and get married, go live with him = bet you don't survive 3 months!
Amanda Beamish says
When you look at yourself in the mirror and think you're fat and ugly, in 20 years you're going to WISH you're that fat and ugly. Enjoy it!
Kirsty F says
don't stress about the small stuff – it's not worth it ….
Kirsten Murphy says
To me at 13 – dig your heels in until they let you do art instead of physics & put in an official complaint about that creepy maths teacher
Rachael G says
Don't worry so much about what other people think of you.
Carolin says
Don't rush growing up, you have more than enough time to be an adult for a veeeeery long time later on in life.
Linda McGarrigle says
I would probably say do it all again just don't get caught this time π
Laura Marshall says
To not let fear guide my life. To trust myself and the decisions I make and if you get a chance to have a nap always take it!
TheBoyAndMe says
I particularly like the nap advice!
David West says
I'd say Grow up!!!
Andy W says
Always try and learn from your mistakes.
Phil Darling says
Enjoy your hair – it doesn't last long
Jen English says
I would advise myself to save as much as possible while I was able.
Rocknrollerbaby says
I would say' You are not FAT! Yet…'
Abigail Cullen says
Go with your gut instincts.
Rachael Lines says
I would say take more photos! – I lost a big period of my life because I only have memories to look back on, when I could have taken pictures of friends and family who are now lost to time and space. x
TheBoyAndMe says
I completely understand that! Photos are a huge part of my life!
Rebecca Morgan says
Dear Rebecca….
You've got a voice
Just learn to speak.
Life's confusing now
But won't always be bleak.
Say what's on your mind
And dont be pushed around
Listen to your heart
And learn to stand your ground
Listen to your parents
Get your homework done.
Go out with your friends
And have a little fun!
Childhoods not forever
So enjoy each and every day
Next time that you look,
You'll be getting old and grey
Tracey Hallmark says
Grasp opportunities as they arise for you may not get the chance again.
Hilda Hazel Wright says
Leave the inhibitions behind and get some confidence, enjoy your youth life passes by quickly!
Allan Smith says
Dont worry. Be happy π
Julie Booth says
Do not let him abuse you. You were only 11.
Laura Jeffs says
Stop obsessing about finding love, concentrate your energies and effort on finding your career path instead π
Stephanie Whitehouse says
Be more frivolous
Kay Broomfield says
Don't sweat the small stuff!
Mirjana says
Accept and love yourself. You are beautiful π
David Edge says
Go easier on the beer! π
Natalie England says
Don't listen to those who put you down!
Paul Wilson says
Be more self-confident.
Selina Jefferies says
Get on the property ladder!
Darren says
Don't stress so much about the little things
Amanda Hart says
Travel, travel, travel
Angela Wilcox says
worry less, save more
Vakhida says
don't try to adjust yourself to please somebody, always be yourself
Ellie Bevan says
Make the most of your daughter when she is small – one day her bio dad will want to be involved, and when that happens you will miss her more than you thought you could!
Tracy Newton says
Dump that boyfriend and go to university
Suzanne Cooke says
dont take your new phone in the bath in 2014
Claire Hull says
Don't spend your time worrying abou little things that don't matter
Blake Ahearne says
Listen to your mum lol
jennifer thorpe says
save as much money as you can
Pamela Gossage says
Don't stress over things , people are more important
Bhavesh Mistry says
take a chill pill
Trudi Walsh says
Think before you act!
Richard Rowley says
Don't go for that second interview at Tarmac when you know the job is not right for you (and avoid a berk with no brakes writing your car off on the way home)
Fern says
have more fun!
my dad always tried to encourage me to go out with friends, have fun, be a teenager! instead i was trying to be grown up and letting blokes dictate my life, then at 20 i had my first baby and that was the end of it, im now 24 and i have no stories of mis-spent youth, of crazy days and the nights i dont remember. take advantage of the here and now, you dont know whats around the corner.
vicky cockett says
be strong; you might feel small and might be told your insignificant but one day you will be somebody's whole world xx
Tracy B says
I'd tell my younger self not to listen to those who bring you down. Dreams can come true, you just have to believe in them.
Cheryll H says
Chase your dreams before you waste two decades π
katy c johnston says
Don't waste your time on worrying what people think, or what you THINK people MIGHT think about you! Go out and do what you want while you still have the chance π
Rebecca Taylor says
Work hard, things can happen but you need to make them happen, you cannot rely on other people to do it for you, love your mummy!
NATALIE BRADLEY says
TRAVEL THE WORLD AND NEVER LET ANYONE PUT U DOWN! STEER CLEAR OF CHEATS
Sarah Lewis says
Take each day as it comes and enjoy.
emma hunt says
work hard and save save save
Travis Faulkner says
You're ADD get over it its fine. Dont get so fat, and dont study communications. Its not worth the money, get an osha degree and make lots of money.
leanne weir says
That it's ok to cry.
Victoria R Morrison says
Work harder, save harder, and things get better and easier π
Louise Comb says
Accept that not everyone will like you, and that's ok
jodie crossley says
dont be afraid to be yourself
lynn savage says
Save, save, save, one day you'll be old and in need of that pension or savings
ema j lowe says
to do better at school
Paula Phillips says
Stop worrying so much and be more confidant.
Sue Harrison says
Enjoy every minute and every experience. Time goes so fast.
Jenny Harper says
"Can't" should be removed from your vocabulary. You can be and do whatever you want with your life, as you only get one shot at it
Melanie Edjourian says
Have more confidence in your own abilities
Stacie M says
I think i would be pretty worried about changing things if i could go backand talk to my younger self, i would liked to have never started smoking but if i hadn't then i wouldn't have met my husband and would have never have my wonderful kids, the same if i had stayed at school or 100 other things. maybe the safest things would be to go back 10 months and tell myself that it is NOT going to take a few hours to pack up my house, myself, my husband and 4 kids and that it will NOT only take a few hours to unpack all of that aswell. I moved a couple of weeks before christmas witha 2 month old baby, 1year old, 2 year old and spent the whole month around christmas stressed and trying to cope with moving and 3 young kids. i wish i had packed better and not stressed about trying to get it all done right away. I'd probably also tell myself not to eat that chinese last week as i had an upset stomach the next day
TheBoyAndMe says
Eeek! Hope you're feeling better now!
lyn Burgess says
Cherish your mom while you've got her, she won't be around for long.
Emma Harris says
I would love to go back and tell my younger self to apply myself at school, get good grades and go to Uni π
joanna burns says
Don't fastforward, don't remind….live in the moment …and always be kind
Angela McDonald says
I'd tell myself to work hard, not to worry about not totally fitting in and just be myself and enjoy the time I have with my best friends and family
Sarah Bates says
Be confident!
gareth bennett says
Don't eat all those pies, they will come back to haunt you!
Nicola Lynch says
Save your money and have a dream to work towards. Also, don't worry what others say/think.
Maureen Quinnell says
work a bit harder at school and end up with a job you actually want
Kirsty Mills says
Don't worry & be confident.
Joy Connor says
Always hold your head up high, have belief and confidence in yourself, yes there are bad times but they are massively outweighed by the good, if at first you don't succeed try try again…oh and enjoy chocolate…just not too much!
madeline connolly says
dont be in a hurry to grow up
Michael Clarke says
Don't waste your money on fast women and cars
kerry Locke says
Choose the other Job
Jacqueline Roberts says
Say sorry to my Mum before its too late and buy shares in Apple.
Milly Y says
Save some money – you're gonna need it later!
Catherine Bell says
Have more fun
Keshia Esgate says
Save your money!
Neil Hutchings says
Eat less!
Emily Knight says
I'd tell her to make sure she's sensible with money and avoid getting in debt!!
Danielle Vedmore says
Believe in yourself!
angela sandhu says
Dont take life so seriously
Samantha Sugden says
spent every spare moment you can with your dad
Claire Long says
To the 13 year old me … Do not make that first cut, self harm will ruin your life and you won't be able to stop no matter how easy you think it will be to do π
Karen Lloyd says
Believe in yourself.
Trudie Forde says
Life's short, make the most of everyday, be happy!
Georgie Aronin says
Talk more to the older people in your family about their past.
Vicki Stapley says
It's better to be single & happy than in a relationship & miserable so be happy in yourself.
Joanna Brady says
Stop worrying it all works out in the end every time and u r still standing
Holly Detre says
If I had to tell my younger self one thing it would be – be true to yourself.
Heather Knotts says
Don't try to please everyone – they like you better if you don't give a damn what they think of you anyway!
Tracey Belcher says
Work to Live, Don't Live to Work. One LIFE is all you need if you do it right – Push your limits or you will never know how far you can go and Happiness is worth more than any bank balance
Rory Campion says
You're going to have amazing kids
Vicki A Smith says
Look after your self and eat well
kazza ham says
man up girl!
Katherine Coldicott says
Choose a career you would really love to do & don't just go for the ones that pay well.
Pete Schofield says
I would say to keep plugging away and follow your dreams because only you can make it happen in the end.
Jeremy Hards says
Start saving now, even if it seems very little as it will be too late by the time you realise you should be saving.
jen f says
Id tell myself to not listen to the constant bullying i had to put up with day in day out, to take more chances, let myself be more confident and try not to overly worry about everything. It all get better eventually.
Miss Tulip says
Don't get so distracted by wanting to be with friends all the time in the fear of 'missing out'. Just concentrate on what I want to do so I can get where I want to be.
Miss Tulip x
The Thrifty Magpies Nest
SeasiderClare says
If you want to fit tyres and fix cars for a living go and learn how – Dad is wrong, there will still be mechanics when you are older!
Stephs Two Girls says
Appreciate how much your parents are doing for you every day. x
tracey thompson says
don't buy on credit
Mark says
Listen to other peoples views and always make yours known.
Tim says
You will get found out in the end.
Rachel Blackburn says
enjoy yourself!
Sarah Mills says
don't start smoking!
Maria Jane Knight says
Dont be frightened about making those leaps and changes to better your life
Lucy Procter says
Be more confident!
sarah says
Dont be so trusting.
Megan Davies says
You should probably go to the doctors about that
Sammie Martin says
Quit Worrying
Tara Smith says
Don't worry about what everyone else thinks – if you think it's right, just do it!
Emma Davies says
Have more confidence in yourself x
barbara madden says
not to worry about the things i cant change and to change the things i worry about that i can. if i had done this then i would'nt be suffering with my nerves
Mark Palmer says
take your time and don't worry
Amanda Johnson says
I would say "You know what? You're actually ok and dont be affraid to smile"
Haley Redshaw says
Dont smoke
Deanne Harrison says
I would say to my younger self, there will be a special man comes into your life when your older, treasure every second with him. His name is Walter Hartwell White π
Barbara Handley says
Find out as much as possible about your paternal and maternal ancestors. I have spent over 20 years compiling my family tree but there are many questions only my late parents could have answered.
Barbara Handley says
Find out as much as possible about your paternal and maternal ancestors. I have spent over 20 years compiling my family tree but there are many questions only my late parents could have answered.
Hannah Smith says
I would tell my younger self not to worry so much about what other people think, it really isn't important!!
@smeethsaysfashn on twitter.
Sarah Buckley says
Slow down & stop to enjoy life more!!
Rachel Harris says
I would say don't worry too much about things, be yourself and don't try to please everyone x
Laura Cooper says
Have self confidence – you don't need a boyfriend to make you feel good.
Patricia Avery says
Plan for tomorrow but don't waste time worrying about things you have no contol over. It is such a waste of time and energy that could be better used elsewhere π
Leyla Brooke says
Stay focused it was worth it
Wendy Tolhurst says
I would tell myself that the more you worry about things happening, the less likely they are to happen. Relax, enjoy yourself, and things will follow a natural progression.
kirsty cooper says
to chill out more! relax and enjoy life more as it goes so quick!
nicola white says
its ok, do what you think is right and believe init xx
rachael jones says
I would say ….. You know what you're doing carry on π
why ? because i dont have regrets , everything ive ever done ive done for a reason even if now my reason seems strange it was how i felt at the time s thats real.
Deborah Bird says
Save some money!
Victoria N says
Don't waste all your money on clothes and shoes!
Lisa Wilkinson says
Chill out and enjoy the smaller things in life π
Vikki D says
Dont listen to all the people who are not important to you
Lindy Hine says
To a teenager I'd say – you know all those stupid things that old people say? – one day in the future you'll find yourself totally agreeing with them!
Gill Mitchell says
Everything you're going through is happening for a reason and helping to make you a better person, ready for a fantastic future.
Lucy Dorrington says
You will regret that pink shell suit. Particularly when you are in your thirties and you see someone wearing it in a supermarket, because it's 'eighties week'. π
Becky Cowley says
Don't shave your arms! No one really gives a shit if your forearms are hairy & yours are not that bad!
ANNE BAXTER says
I wasn't always this old. I was once the same age as you and I know what I'm talking about.
Jane Middleton says
Do everything much quicker, don't hang about.
Joanne Blunt says
Spend time looking around you and actually taking notice of people and events, because time goes way too fast and you soon start wondering how you got to this place.
Kirsty Fox says
I would say don't eat so much junk food because yor going to be obese in your 30s!!
Kristy Brown says
Don't doubt yourself – it wasn't your fault and the sooner you realise that with the correct guidance the sooner you will leave the burden to those that created it
Felicity Kelly says
Don't try and change yourself to please others and fit in
Ellen Stafford says
Don't worry about the depression you will come through it in the end.
Robyn Logan Clarke says
To my 17 year old self: don't take that relationship too seriously, stress less and start saving now!
Karis says
Do your A levels.
Dee says
Marry a rich man! Your life will be so much easier. xx
Michaela B says
To my 27yr old self: Say sorry to your mum and stop being an idiot over nothing, it's all well and good thinking you'll talk to her and apologise tomorrow but 5 years later you're still kicking yourself that you never got that chance.
Carrie Talbot-Ashby says
If I could go back
and talk to myself,
I don't think I'd change a darn thing!
Its just that despite
having a pretty hard life,
where I am now is just amazing.
If I went back now,
and said 'Do this!' Or 'Do that!'
What if that changed who I am?
I might get hit by a bus,
or marry someone called Gus!
or worse, end up allergic to Spam!
So I'd leave things as they are,
Well, I don't have any scars!
And while things were bad I'm ok!
I might have tons of advice,
could tell myself to think twice,
But I do so love my life this way! <3
Louise A says
my younger self was bullied badly as a teenager and I would say to her that it ends and her life will end up being better than her bullies
George Worboys Wright says
Don't wait, don't worry.
Vicky Robinson says
I would tell my teenage self to ignore the bullies and be confident and happy with who I am and what I look like – that the bullies would later apologize to me and tell me that they had no idea why they did it.
I would also tell my 27 year old self that my sickly, underweight first baby needs to a tonsil adenoidectomy with grommets fitting so that we could skip a year and a half of worry with him being very ill while no Dr actually diagnosed the problem! (It was finally done when he was 2.)
RichardJ says
It gets worse!
kim neville says
Try and save some money each month for the future and don't get in debt
jo maggs says
Grab every chance that comes your way x
Claire Conniff says
Hes not worth it!!
Carly Ann says
Don't get your belly button pierced!!!!!
Ian Campbell says
Try as hard and do as well as you can each day. Once it is done, relax safe in the knowledge that no expense was spared π
Claire Davies says
Everything in your life is a reflection of choices that you made. If you want a new outcome, make a different choice.
Angie Millar says
Put down the cigs!!!!
aaron broad says
Eat less rubbish food
Rachel Butler says
Ah! There is so so much I should tell my younger self…..But the most important things would be:
Don't smoke….it's a waste!
Take your time….slow down!
Save some money!
Have your babies early!
And do you really really need that bit of cake? You'll regret it later! Lol!
sairz eastham says
Make sure you keep time for friends and family – and don't worry, it will work out ok
Sam Furniss says
I would tell my younger self to never let an opportunity pass you by and look after your teeth!
Deborah J says
Live Life to the full
Claire Wilkinson says
enjoy school!!
Susan Carruthers says
Always appreciate your older relatives and talk to them while you have the chance, they won't be with you forever.
Jill Donaldson says
I would tell myself you can do anything at don't wait around thinking some thing will come up
Lorna Peppiatt says
Enjoy every day, be positive and remember life is too short for regrets x
Sarah says
Try to make more friends in uni even though you made the right choice of boyfriend π and try and stick at your first career based job a bit longer than 4 years!!
Alisa Moore says
Work hard play hard
Christine Bray says
Speak less and listen more!
Nicola Jones says
Don't take your health for granted, you never know when its going to get snatched away
Zoe Bryan says
Listen to your heart your head isn't always right
Mark Rayner says
Don't waste money.
Katie Skeoch says
Other people's opinions ultiately don't matter – it's your life so make decisions on what's best for you!
Fivegoblogging says
Love your messages to yourself.
Mine would be to my 22 year old self: believe yourself when you tell your then boyfriend that you wished you'd meet again in 10 years time. In 10 years time he makes the perfect husband!
Sarah R says
I would tell my 14yr old self not to start smoking……it is NOT cool!!!!!!
karen cowley says
appreciate your parents, don't smoke and think with your heart x
Lindy says
Enjoy every second π
katherine fay says
Your childhood won't last forever. Work harder , study better , one day you will learn that it doesn't matter what others say. Live your dream and fuel your ambition. Don't quit university…..go back. Don't grow up with regrets , fight for what you want and keep trying. One day you will be where I am……happy.
Alexander Beaven says
In my 20's I'd say get out of the habit late nights as you'll find it a very hard to break as you get older