Advice for your younger self

If you could turn back time and offer a piece of wisdom to the younger version of yourself, what insights, lessons, or words of encouragement would you share? This question prompts introspection, inviting individuals to reflect on the experiences that shaped them and the invaluable lessons they’ve learned along the way. Evana Manandhar talked to three people and their responses provide a glimpse into the reservoir of wisdom that comes from retrospection, offering not only personal reflections but universal truths that transcend time.

Sushila Karki, 48

If I could offer advice to my younger self, I would say, cherish the small moments, for they are the ones that make life beautiful. In the midst of the chaos of raising a family, take time to enjoy the laughter of your children, the warmth of their hugs, and the joy in their innocent eyes. While it’s important to plan for the future, don’t forget to relish the present.

Embrace imperfections, both in yourself and in your children. Perfection isn’t real, but love is. Be patient, not just with them but with yourself. Parenting is a journey of constant learning, so forgive your mistakes and learn from them.

Build a strong support network. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, share your values, and offer a listening ear during challenging times. You don’t have to navigate motherhood alone.

Lastly, trust your instincts. You know your children better than anyone else. While advice is valuable, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting. Your intuition, combined with love, will guide you through the highs and lows.

In the end, it’s not about having a perfect life but about creating a life full of love, understanding, and beautiful memories. So, take a deep breath, enjoy the journey, and know that you are doing an incredible job.

Rupesh Lama, 21

First, take a breath. You’re doing fine, and you’ve got so much ahead of you. Embrace the uncertainty, it’s where the magic happens. Don’t stress too much about having everything figured out. Life’s a journey, not a checklist.

Travel when you can. It doesn’t have to be far or extravagant, but exposing yourself to different cultures and perspectives will change you in ways you can’t imagine. So, save a bit of money, pack a bag, and go see the world. Don’t compare your journey to others. Social media can be deceiving, and everyone’s on his/her own unique path. Your worth isn’t determined by the number of likes on a post or what your peers are doing.

Learn to manage your finances. It’s not the most exciting thing to think about, but in the future, you will thank the present you for being responsible. Budgeting is your friend, and credit cards are a double-edged sword.

Lastly, be kind to yourself. You’re going to make mistakes, and that’s how you grow. Don’t be too hard on the person you’re becoming, you’re a work in progress. Enjoy this time of self-discovery and embrace the opportunities that come your way. You’ve got this.

Sami Shakya, 47

Reflecting on my 47 years of life experience, I’ve come to recognize the profound importance of certain principles that have shaped my journey. One key piece of advice I would offer to my younger self is to prioritize education and skills development.

Education forms the bedrock of knowledge while honing specific skills ensures relevance and competitiveness in an ever-evolving world. Understanding the competitive nature of the future, I would emphasize the need for a serious approach to certain aspects of life, especially regarding career and personal growth. Striking a balance between enjoying life’s moments and approaching key areas with a sense of gravity is crucial.

Moreover, the wisdom gained from learning through mistakes is invaluable, yet the gravity of certain missteps underscores the need for patience and the cultivation of strong decision-making capacities. Navigating the complexities of life requires a harmonious blend of passion, perseverance, and strategic thinking, traits that can significantly impact one’s journey toward a fulfilling and successful future.