I just celebrated another year around the sun and have been reflecting on how my taste in food, furniture and tolerance levels have changed but nothing has changed more than the way I think.

When I was a teenager, I constantly worried about how I was being perceived by my peers. In my 20s, I worried that I was not enough. In my 30s, I worried about my career and my 40s begin the relentless worry of retirement planning. Now that I’m in the “youth of my senior years”, I’m more reflective and calm. I’ve finally realized that most of things that I worried about never came to be or have cease to be important.

If I could go back in time, this is the advice I would give my younger self:

• You can’t lead if you don’t continue to read: Reading is one of the most cost effective ways to acquire new knowledge. The average author has spent a decade or more learning and their book will provide you with years of experience in ~350 pages. Reading stimulates your imagination – this is why we say “the book was better than the movieâ€. It also challenges you to think critically and analyse information. Reading exposes you to different perspectives, ideas and experiences. It enhancing your ability to articulate ideas and convey messages, which is the hallmark of a good leader.
• Believe in Yourself: You are capable of achieving your dreams. It doesn’t matter if no one else believes in you right now. Your belief in yourself is paramount. Identify your strengths and challenge your negative thoughts. Instead of saying, “I can’t do thisâ€, say “I have the thought that…I can’t do thisâ€. This will give you some separation between your thoughts and the reality you are pursuing. Avoid negative influences and people that undermine your confidence. However, there will be times that you need to keep your dreams private and celebrate your achievements publicly. Visualise your success – what are you wearing, what day of the week will you achieve this goal. Stay focused, it’s only a matter of time.
• Be resilient: Life will present you with a lot of challenges, but your strength and resilience will see you through. Reframing the challenge you are facing as an opportunity for growth is your superpower. Look for creative solutions but set small, realistic goals so you don’t become overwhelmed. Ask for help because you were not created to live this life in isolation. Constantly remind yourself that you have already survived 100% of the past challenges you have faced.
• Seek Mentorship: Surround yourself with mentors and role models who can guide and inspire you. If you are the smartest person in your circle, your circle it too small. Remember, your friends are concerned with your past but a mentor is concerned with your future.
• Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Keep learning and growing, both academically and personally. You don’t need to enrol in a university program – your local library or YouTube channels can provide you with wealth of information on any topic you find interesting. Never stop learning.

Remember, to keep Enjoying the Journey!