Letter to My 17 Year Old Self (from Future You) by Kristine Newell

I stumbled upon an old photo. 17 year old me. I decided to go back and time and give her some advice. From the future me.

What I would tell the younger, "me:"

Rule number one, If I'm allowed to go back in time and give you this advice. The first thing I need to tell you: go buy a helmet. Yep. You are going to fall on your face so many times that you need to protect that brain. And even though you have a really thick skull- i think a helmet is a wise investment

Rule number two - the most important thing in this life are those that you love, you like and you want to spend time with. Everything else is replaceable. It can be bought or sold. Shiny things are great  but in the end, it's the people in your life that matter most. 

Rule number three - giving really is the key to prosperity. So give it all away, all the time. Help others. Give without expectation. And when you are tired angry,, sad - just keep giving. 

Rule number four- you will love. Really hard. And sometimes it's going to really hurt. There is no way around it. So strap on that helmet I told you about. 

Rule number five -  when things are hard and you're searching for the answer, it means you are onto something really great. Stay curious and keep learning - always. A growth mindset will hand you the answers you seek. Never stop learning.

Rule number six - no good decision is ever made from fear. Let me say that again. No good decision is ever made from fear. Ask yourself, are your thoughts on the love channel or the fear channel? Always choose love. 

Rule number seven-  your mornings will decide the mood of your entire day. So show up early, stay focused, start with gratitudes and affirmations and remember that the biggest gift you have to offer the world is yourself. And the world needs you. Just you. 

Rule number eight- gratitude is the foundation to a life well lived. Use a habit of grateful every day and appreciate all of the blessings in your life- you have so many, and appreciate those around you. Never waste a moment of life- it is precious. 

Rule number nine. Know what you want. See it with absolute clarity and the universe will deliver it. You must visualize, believe and then take action. If you do all three, you are unstoppable. But most importantly, believe in yourself. 

Rule number ten- You are strong. You are so strong. Never forget that. 

Now if I could just find you a helmet - with wings- it would be so much easier! See you in 30 years. 

Love, 

future you