Advice to a Younger Self

Oh, for the love of time machines! The breaking of the New Year always puts me in a reflective mood, looking over my life for insight and answers. Occasionally, they come. Most times, the questions still remain. About six months ago, however, I was introduced to the concept of writing a letter from your older self to your younger self. Hmm . . . Could this finally be a purpose for those annoying inner voices taking up rental space in my head? Perhaps this could finally put those chatty ones to work. What would my older (current) self tell my younger self? Let's listen in  . . .

• Listen to the advice of trusted elders. Really listen.
• Understand that a few adults are full of crap, and you shouldn't listen to anything they say (I'll give you a list to help.)
• When you are truly in love, it doesn't hurt.
• When you find your passion, don't give up so easily at the first bump in the road. Those bumps are your training ground, and they will make you better.
• When you are 17, you will be walking around Berlin at 2 a.m. with friends. Don't leave your camera at the hotel!
• Make the phone calls that are hard to make. Write the letters that are hard to write. Knock on the doors that are hard to approach. It will be worth it.
• Hug more.
• You are already enough. Believe that.
• When Gary from Northern Telecom asks you to the movies, say yes.
• Not everyone is meant to stay in your life forever. Some only stay for a short time, to teach you something, and then move along. This is because they have fulfilled their purpose in your life, not because of anything you did. 
• When you don't like something, speak up. This will save a lot of trouble in the long run.
• It's going to work out alright. Seriously.
• Skip the mullet.

Are there words you wish you had known when you were younger? What would you tell your younger self?