Lessons from 25: Looking Back to Move Forward

They say hindsight is 20/20, and as I reflect on my 25-year-old self, I can't help but wonder what changes I would make to improve my current life. Picture my daily routine back then: waking up, rolling a joint, and kicking off my workday under the sun with a sly grin, imagining life could never be better again. But life is fluid, and looking back, there are several areas where I would make different choices for a healthier, happier path.

Early Choices and Their Impact

At 25, I was deeply entrenched in my habits, and marijuana and rock and roll seemed to amplify the moments of joy. However, the people and choices that surrounded me were not always positive. If I could go back, several things come to the forefront:

Friendships: I would have ended my toxic friendships sooner. These relationships demotivated me and held me back. Passion: I would have double-downed on my passion, making it a cornerstone of my life. Meditation: Starting a daily meditation practice would have enhanced my mental clarity and inner peace. Habits: I would have paid closer attention to my daily habits to build a foundation for a healthier lifestyle. Mindset: Working on my mindset would have provided a strong psychological foundation. Toxic Relationships: I would have focused on avoiding harmful romantic relationships that drained my energy.

Life Decisions: The Best and the Worst

One decision, in particular, stands out. If I had become a Jesuit monk, it would have been an excellent choice for me. The life of a monk aligns with many of my core values and would have provided a sense of purpose and tranquility that I lacked in my early 20s. This brings me to my marriage. If I could choose differently, never marrying would have been a better option. Although I was married for a brief period, the experience left me questioning the institution of marriage more than solidifying my decision to remain single.

Consistency and Personal Growth

In my mid-30s, I am still happy with my life, despite the misses from my younger self. What I find most interesting is that my lifestyle and social opinions were quite conservative even back then. I am glad to have maintained my orientation towards simplicity and self-reliance. Nonetheless, there are a few things I would do differently:

Stick to simplicity: Being conservative in lifestyle and opinions has served me well. I want to live this way permanently, not revisiting this mindset mid-life. Set clear boundaries: When I do not feel good, I would say 'no' and move forward. Creating space for my personal well-being is essential. Pursue genuine joy: Finding new hobbies that excite and celebrate my strengths is crucial. Authentic joy is incredibly valuable and worth chasing. Be mindful of personal stories: If sharing my experiences does not create a positive impact, I would stop sharing them. Respect and understanding from others are critical, and if they are not present, it is okay to keep my personal stories to myself.

Overall, reflecting on my 25-year-old self brings both nostalgia and motivation to continue growing and making the best decisions for my life today.