Every October for the last few years I’ve shared a photo of my younger self, part of the Inspiring Girls International #ThisLittleGirlIsMe campaign, along with the advice I’d give that younger me.
Each year a different picture has inspired different thoughts, and this time it’s me aged 4ish, peering out of the window of a train carriage on the Bluebell railway. I look a little apprehensive, as though I’m not quite sure what the journey will bring.
This little girl is me, and here are 5 things I wish she knew for the journey of her life that lies ahead, with love from me to her.
The things you love to do as a child - get lost in a good book, write for fun, be outside on your own in the fresh air, talk to a good friend, watch a favourite TV show with your family - will stay with you through your life. When you feel out of sorts, they will always be there for you - don’t forget about them.
Processing your life and decisions out loud is a complete gift - it helps you hear what’s true for you. When you get stuck, write it out or talk it out with a supportive sounding board. It always helps - don’t get stuck in your head.
You don’t have to do it all alone, even if it feels like it sometimes. Keep an eye out for the people who will come into your life when you need them - to see who you are, point you in the right direction and give you a helping hand to get there. They are a gift to be appreciated.
It’s ok to be the exception to the rule, to do things differently and make choices that only seem to make sense to you. Follow your energy - your curiosity and interests - even if you’re not sure where they are taking you at the time.
You don’t have to grow up and find one thing to stick with. Your life will have phases and stages as you evolve and grow, and that’s absolutely fine. When you look back, you’ll see that each of them has been a different expression of your inner light, and they don’t have to last forever to be meaningful.
What were you like when you were little?
And what advice would you give your younger self
Wishing you all a week of remembering and reflecting,
