10 Pieces of (Sage) Advice to Myself, from Myself

This week, I crossed a pivotal birthday.  It’s the kind of birthday that made me think, after all these decades, what wisdom can I share, what advice do I have for myself?  As a birthday gift, I wrote this letter to myself…

Happy Birthday Beautiful.  Welcome to the rest of your life.  Here’s a couple of reminders to let life be easy.  Read them whenever you need.

1. Relinquish control.

It’s time.  You’ve done all you can to make the world happy and a better place.  Now, soothe yourself and stop managing every little thing (out there).  It’s not necessary.  Your control was to make you feel better and now you’re smart enough to know that you can feel better anytime you want without the pain of having to manage the rest of it.  Drive your car and forget telling everyone else how to drive theirs.

2. Breathe deeper.

For yourself, for your being, for greater clarity and peace in your life, breathe deep and fall into that bliss.  When you get frazzled, breathe deep.  When you get nervous, breathe deep.  And when you want to hear your awareness, find an empty space of silence somewhere, close your eyes, and breathe deep.  It really does make everything better.

3. Chill out.

Yes, you can.  Both you and the world deserve a break.  Put your feet up, remember that all the big things in your life have been beautifully handled already, and that everyone you care about is already on your side, and everyone, that isn’t, likely won’t matter anyway.  Whatever it is, it will go smoother if you are relaxed.  And when you’re not, remind yourself to get there first.

4. Celebrate.

Remember to do this more this year than any other one before it.  Why?  Because intention precedes motion.  And motion drives the thrill of life.  This may take a little more effort in the beginning, but I know you, you will be spectacular at it once you get the hang of it and tell yourself that it’s okay to be having so much fun!  And if you need some guidance, here’s a hint… say yes to everything asked of you.

5. Know your strength.

You’ve done many amazing things.  Own them.  Don’t discount them.  And as you get older, and even feel emotional, worn down, or tired on occasion, know that if you want to, when you want to, you’ve already shown incredible strength, fortitude, and resilience in your life.  Don’t ever forget that.  You can do anything you set your mind to.  After all, you always have.

6. Practice gratitude.

Sure, I know you do but here’s a little trick.  The next time you worry or panic or get caught up in negative thoughts, practice gratitude.  Look around and start with the room you’re in.  Pick 5 things to love and appreciate.  Then, examine the people you’re surrounded by and think back to how they’ve pleasantly surprised you in the past, and be grateful for them.  Your focus on giving thanks will overshadow all else.

7. Have faith.

I know you do.  You’ve survived a few decades knowing how to do this!  I’m telling you to do it even more, and even sooner, and especially when your stomach flutters in anxiety.   Practice this faith as your belief in yourself and the good of the Universe.  It’s not out to get you.  It’s your biggest fan.  Remember that. You’ll thank me for it… I promise.

8. Be aware.

Awareness has been your friend forever but only in the last decade have you been more cognizant of its place within you.  It’s a blessing and the closest thing you have to knowing the real you.  Keep listening and feeling your way to knowing yourself.  Engage in more writing, more walking, more gardening, and more meditating.  Express yourself in all facets of the world to see a clear reflection of your soul.

9. Take chances.

You think you’re old(er).  You’re not.  You’re better.  So take advantage of that.  Drop the insecurities even if it’s something new and instead push forward with courage and some gusto.  Regret is not you.  You’re either all in or out.  So get all in.  Step out of your comfort zone even if it’s lined in heated Uggs and smells like fresh brewed coffee.  Let the chill wake you up and get engaged in life where it can surprise you.  You deserve to be living fully in every moment that you’re in life.

10. Be YOU.

You are unique.  By now, you know that.  But do you own it?  Do you revel in it?  Do you find your greatest wellspring of devotion to yourself in it?  Knowing yourself is the secret to the universe.  For every unsure step, tap into yourself, dig deeper into your own feet, and let your resonance shine.  No apologies. No fear.  Try this as an experiment for the next decade… be you.  Love yourself wholeheartedly and let your magic shine. 

What advice would you give yourself?

~ Roopal Badheka