Writing a letter to your younger self is an opportunity to face
the past head on to unlock the future. Letting go of negative feelings that could
be holding you back is also great for gaining clarity too.
In our ever-digital world of texts, likes and emojis, I feel the
art of letter writing still has a valid place, will hopefully have a revival
and can be a really cathartic exercise.
This is your opportunity to reassure your younger self with the
knowledge and empathy that you now have. Give yourself some love, forgive
yourself if you need to, forgive others and write everything that needs to be
said. Be kind to yourself. Be the voice of encouragement that you needed back
then.
This is my letter to 19 year old Emily…
18 September 2020
Dear 19 year old Emily
You don’t know this yet but you are going to absolutely love living
in the North West (despite the rain) and being at Manchester University. Just please
don’t start every Fresher’s Week conversation with ‘I’ve been on a gap year!’. You
have to trust me on this one.
You’re going to meet some of your best friends over the next few
years. In 20 years’ time you’ll still very much be in each other’s lives. The
ups and the downs and the roundabouts. Your girlfriends are so important. Never
stop checking in, meeting up and laughing together.
You will feel so confused about academia. The Head of Combined
Studies is going to look after you in a few weeks when you’re thinking about
quitting and reassure you that all is going to be ok. His calming presence during
this time is going to stay with you forever and you’re going to pay it forward
again and again over your life.
When you get onto the course that you like please read the text
before the lecture. Just do it. This philosophy will stand you in good stead
for the rest of your life. Be prepared for whatever you’re up against and you’ll
do it so much better than if you try to wing it.
Try and avoid the Ulysses module if you can. Instead seek out more
sociology and psychology courses – you’re fascinated by people and what makes
them tick. You’ll often feel out of your depth but you’ll get through and do
well. One day you’ll discover vocational learning and it’ll change your world.
You’ll take control and work will never feel like work again.
Your mum will always be at the end of the phone. But don’t just call
her when you need something. One day she’ll get a mobile phone and only send
you text messages with all the emojis and you’ll miss hearing her voice.
You have a great life ahead of you, Emily. Your time in Manchester
is just the start. Remember to take responsibility for what comes next and then
go for it with all the energy and creativity that you have. You can do anything!
Lots of love
Emily, age 42
What are the words of wisdom you now know that you wish you’d known then?
What advice did you seek but never find?
What support back then might have changed how things are today?
And when you’re ready just start…Dear younger me, you don’t know this yet but…
