Dear Courtney,
Today is your 25th birthday. You’ve struggled quite a bit in these past few years. There have been some highs, there have been countless lows, but you got here. You are strong. You are a warrior.
25 sounds like the sensational age where you should really have everything figured out, you know? Well, unfortunately, there’s no such thing as a number or specific age where everything just magically works.
I intended to write this letter with a nice long list of goals I hope to achieve by the time I turn thirty. I mean, I love lists. I love goals. But then it hit me: Life is a constant uphill battle – no matter your age – but, the rewards are always worth all the effort you give.
So, instead, I’ll leave you with this piece of advice from your younger self: if you’re thirty years old and reading this and still don’t feel like you have everything figured out, take a breath and realize it’s perfectly okay. Because maybe there’s no such thing as having it all figured out, no matter how many years you’ve spent on this world.
Instead, just do what makes you happy — Find joy in the little things every single day. Continue having an open heart and sharing your vulnerabilities with those around you. Be honest, always. Love wholeheartedly. Laugh with your entire body until your belly aches. Eat what tastes good. Read all the books you want to read, and maybe branch out a bit and try something new. Have adventures and continue exploring all the incredible places out there. Make new friends, meet new people. Do what excites you. Follow your passions. Find what motivates you and never give it up.
Fall in love with places, with people, with memories, with everything.
See you in five years – we’ve got this!!
Sincerely,
25-Year-Old You
