I often think about what I might say if I came across the younger version of myself. What advice would I give, what wisdom would I impart… what might I say that may make the journey easier?
Does the journey even need to be easier? (Hmmmm that’s topic for another time!)
Let’s say, for argument’s sake that it does. Here are the 10 tips I may share with younger Jodi should I be given the chance:
- Celebrate your uniqueness. You may feel alienated and misunderstood at times, but that is because you are unique. You are tuned into the fact that you are different and here to make a difference.
- Embrace the discomfort, celebrate the awkwardness and welcome the challenges. These are all signs that there is something pretty amazing in store for you. The Universe is preparing you with the tools you need to make your special impact in the world and to the lives of many.
- Welcome change. Without it, we would live mundane, predictable lives with no adventure. If it terrifies you, do it anyway. Stretching your comfort zone is the way to stay joyful and excited. Remember that excitement and anxiety feel the same in the boy, it is the thoughts we attach to the feeling that make it a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ experience.
- Don’t believe everything you think. That little voice inside your head is programmed to keep you safe… and small
- Express gratitude daily. Always reflect on the abundance of what you have, rather than the lack. Abundance attracts abundance and lack attracts lack. Simple really.
- Speak with good purpose. Picture every word you speak or write as energy expelled into the Universe like a boomerang. If all else fails, remember the old “if you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything at all”. There is much wisdom in this.
- Your vibe attracts your tribe. You may, at times, feel alone and isolated, but as you grow and really step into the truth of who you are, you will begin to attract other people into your life who are doing and being the same. View friendships and relationships as flowing. As you own your truth, some people with be repelled. Yes, this will hurt… but it will also make space for some pretty extraordinary people to enter your life, and become your new tribe.
- Don’t settle in relationships. You are worthy of respect, love and support and anyone who cannot give you these things is not worthy of your time or attention. Don’t depend on others to prove you are lovable. You are worthy of your love.
- Be generous. Collectively, we are human-kind, not human-mean. We are here to give. There will be people who have forgotten this and are out to ‘get’. I have been both versions and I can honestly share with you that the rewards from giving outweigh any getting… immeasurably. Giving is not just about things or money. Giving your time, energy and love are also so incredibly valuable to the world at large.
- Acknowledge your achievements, your growth and those who have played a role in your journey. Especially those who have challenged you the most. Those people are our biggest teachers. Master the art of forgiveness (particularly of yourself) so you can live a life of gratitude, joy and love.
