All Things Gee

Hey there, my lovely readers!

As I sit here, wrapped in my favorite cozy blanket, sipping on a cup of tea, I find myself wandering down memory lane. It’s a funny thing, reminiscing. It’s like flipping through an old photo album but in your mind. Each memory, a snapshot of a moment long passed.

Almost 10 years on, I feel like I am a very different person to who I was at 16 but very much still a working progress. I have however learnt most importantly that this is not a bad thing. This got me thinking – what if I could have a chat with my 16-year-old self? What nuggets of wisdom would I share over a relaxed, heart-to-heart conversation?

So, I thought I’d share this little imaginary tête-à-tête with you. Maybe you’ll find a piece of advice that resonates or something to chuckle about. So, let’s dive in!

Embrace Your Quirks:

Remember those quirks that make you feel out of place? They’re actually your superpowers. That laugh that you think is too loud, the fact you would rather sit with a book, watch a theatre show, than head to a party. I promise you these are about to become one of your favourite things. That will lead to All Things Gee. and one of your favourite things in the world. Embrace them wholeheartedly.

Worry Less About the ‘Timeline’:

Life isn’t a race, and there’s no set timeline you have to stick to. Remember how stressed you were about graduating, landing the perfect job, finding ‘the one’, or having life figured out by 25? Let that go. We turn 26 in under two weeks and I promise you, whilst the only thing we have ticked off on that list is graduating, not once but twice, we realising that this is okay. Life unfolds in its own time, and each phase brings its own joys and challenges. Trust me, there’s no ‘behind in life’ badge.

Cherish Your Relationships:

Those friends who make you laugh until your belly hurts, the family members who are there for you through thick and thin – cherish them. As you grow older, you’ll realize that these relationships are the real treasures of life.

And hey, it’s okay to outgrow some friendships too. Learn to know when to let go. Sometimes that nagging feeling that it’s holding you back will be the exact thing. It’s all part of your journey.

Self-Care is Not Selfish:

You know those days when you feel overwhelmed and just want to stay in bed watching your favorite series or read a book? Do it without the guilt. Taking time to recharge isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Your future self will thank you for learning this early. Yes we are still learning that this is more than okay and that sometimes saying no when you do not feel okay… is the only word you need.

Mistakes are Okay:

You’re going to make mistakes. It should be noted some tiny, some not-so-tiny. Guess what? It’s absolutely okay. Each mistake is a stepping stone to learning and growing. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Instead, be open to the lessons life throws your way.

Keep Your Passions Alive:

Remember how you love painting, but you’re worried it’s not a ‘practical’ hobby? Keep at it. Your passions fuel your soul, and who knows, they might even open doors you never expected.

Be Kind, Always:

A little kindness goes a long way. Be kind to others, but most importantly, be kind to yourself. Speak to yourself like you would to a dear friend.

Explore, Dream, Discover:

Travel when you can, try new foods, learn about different cultures. Your world view will expand in beautiful ways. This is something we are going to learn to embrace for 26.

I promise that little bit of drama that we are currently so hung up on, the people you are worrying about, none of them apart from one stay in your life. We have learn’t that in fact this is perfectly okay.

So, there you have it – a little heart-to-heart with my younger self. If you’re around that age, or even if you’re not, I hope there’s something here that speaks to you.

And if you’re past your twenties, what would you tell someone heading into their late 20’s? I’d love to hear your thoughts over a virtual cup of tea.

With warmth and a sprinkle of hindsight.
Love Always,

Gee xoxo