It’s crazy to think that 4 years ago I uploaded my very first video to YouTube. 4 years since I built up enough courage to put myself out into the vast world of cyber space. My life today is drastically different from back then, and I honestly can’t imagine who I would be if I had never uploaded that video – or never created this channel. It’s strange to think that the small decision to press record so long ago has impacted so much. And though I have no regrets, there is some advice I wish I had known before I began this journey – advice that may have helped me muddle through this road we call life a bit easier. So here it goes,
Dear Younger Me
Don’t worry so much about what people think. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion – but if they aren’t willing to accept you for you, they aren’t worth your time. You are the best version of you right now – and don’t let anyone try to change it. You ultimately decide who you are – and though you have a lot to learn, and you’ll change LIKE A LOT – realize it’s all part of the journey to become an even better version of you.
Oh, and also, remember that no one is perfect – including you. Cut yourself a break when things feel awkward or you just have a bad day – life isn’t about standing still like a stick in the mud, but moving forward – traversing this slippery landscape we call life. You are bound to slip up and you are bound to make mistakes.
Which leads me to another point – NEVER BE AFRAID TO LEARN SOMETHING NEW. Keep your curiosity and stubbornness. Don’t let anyone tell you “that’s impossible” or “you’ll never be good enough so why try.” Those types of people are simple-minded, and though they often mean well, can’t see the beauty just beyond our fingertips. Remember, dreamers are often seen as crazy until their dreams become reality. Remember there are countless others who have been in your shoes, and while they were mocked during their time, they are now respected as inventors and movers of their generations.
Which brings me to another point, GO WITH YOUR GUT. More often than not, it’s right – even if it doesn’t make logical sense at the time. Trust yourself and always move forward. If you have to adjust the sails and change course, do it – but constantly push forward, because one day this madness WILL MAKE SENSE.
Oh, and although A LOT OF PEOPLE WILL TELL YOU LIFE IS ALL ABOUT THE HUSTLE – IT’S NOT. I’ll be the first to say – I still don’t have it all figured out – but one thing I do know is that life is NOT about the hustle. For me, life is about connecting to the world in a way only you can. For this reason, your life (no matter how insignificant or small you feel right now) is VERY IMPORTANT. You have a purpose, and discovering that may take a lifetime. Don’t worry if you don’t have it all together right now – instead look for the smallest of moments you can make a difference, such as a simple smile or a helping hand. Remember life isn’t all about you — there are others who are just as broken as you. And they need to know they aren’t alone.
Next, surround yourself with the kind of people who inspire you to be the best version of you. Motivation is contagious. And keep in mind – iron sharpens iron, and sometimes differences of opinion help smooth out your own rough edges as well as challenge you to be a better version of you. Always be willing to listen to criticism – but once again, remember, ultimately YOU HAVE THE FINAL SAY.
FINALLY, life isn’t going to be easy – in fact it’s about to get a lot harder – it’s going to break you and shatter every dream you had been holding on to so tightly for years. But you’ll heal, and during that time you’ll learn who your true friends are, as well as become more and more aware of the fact you married your best friend and soul mate. You’ll change during this time, and some people won’t like it. Don’t worry – just push forward. Remember, this is just the beginning. In the end, everything will make sense, and you’ll come out better for it.
So keep learning, keep creating, and keep inspiring yourself as well as others through this messy journey we call life.
THANK YOU FOR THE 100,000 SUBS! THIS LIFE JOURNEY OF MINE WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT YOU.
I Am Truly Thankful!
