Current age/date and time/event to be read Dear Future Self, today is October 24, 2019 (our 25th birthday). It has now been 5 years, so happy 30th to you! I hope you have a great day and treat yourself to a nice dinner, a massage, or a night out on the town! Who you are I’m excited about turning 25! I definitely feel I’ve grown a lot since college (and now I’m about to graduate with my Master’s in social work!). I recently joined a historical fiction book club at the local library and am making new friends like wildfire! Sure, writing my thesis has taken up a lot of time but I’ve gotten way better about time management and staying focused this year. I adopted a sweet cat named Gizmo a few months ago, and he has been brought so much joy and comfort to my home. Oh, did I mention my totally awesome apartment? Sure, it’s modest and kind of on the outskirts of town, but it feels good to be paying my own way. I’m really interested in Buddhist psychology and plan to go on a retreat this summer to learn how to incorporate that practice into my career as a social worker. Fears I’m a little nervous about making enough money to pay off my car and student loans, but I know I’m a hard worker and good at saving. I know social workers don’t make a whole lot of money, but knowing that I’ll be helping people is more rewarding and important than any monetary struggles. Also, I’m a little scared about jumping into the real world. I love the safety of school and how it keeps me on schedule, but I know I’ll adapt well and find my groove. As for my love life, I’m getting anxious about finding a partner soon (especially while juggling what will probably be a busy work schedule). I’m also a little scared that my smoking habit will catch up with me and cause some health problems down the line (hopefully, you’ve kicked the habit!). Key values and beliefs My family, my friends, and my purpose keep me going. I value my time with them and my efforts to make the world a better place for others in need. I’m an honest person with integrity and believe that will carry me far in all of those respects. Even though I don’t identify as a Christian anymore, my spirituality is stronger than ever. I attend weekly services at The Church of Freethought and blend those secular tenants/beliefs with my own Buddhist ideas about ethics and humanism. I firmly believe in the power of charity, compassion, and understanding. Skills and abilities I’m great at speaking to people and nurturing them (which is what sparked my interest in social work). I love meeting new people, hearing their stories, and helping them be the best version of themselves. I’m have great intuition and am good at reading people. I work hard (3.9 GPA!) and love finding creative solutions to challenges for myself and others. Goals and hopes My career goal is to be a therapist for displaced children of parents who are incarcerated (or unable to meet their children’s needs in some way, shape, or form). I hope to be a beacon of light and hope to all of my potential patients. As far as romance goes, I hope to find a life partner in the next few years (the sooner the better!). I aim to have at least one child by my early 30s. My home-life goal is to have a modest house with a porch, vegetable garden, and lots of yard space where my pets (and future children) can play. Advice I’d like to remind you of a few things that have made my life easier and more joyful: 1. Check in with yourself every day! Breathe through any discomforting emotions and honor them (just like you would a patient’s feelings). 2. Express gratitude every day. Write down your blessings and/or say them aloud. 3. Travel more! You deserve a break, so take small trips whenever you can to refresh your mind and body (maybe you’ll be taking family trips by now!) 4. Get out and meet people more often. You might be tired from a long day, but power naps work! Questions Now I’d like for you to ask yourself these questions to make sure you’re staying on track to lead your best life: 1. Do you feel rewarded and fulfilled by your work? 2. Do you feel like you’re making a difference in the lives of others? 3. Are you balancing your social, work, and home life? 4. Who is that person you can always rely on for advice and comfort? 5. How are you taking time for yourself (e.g., spa days, meditation breaks, long contemplative walks, solo trips)? Affirmations Lastly, I just want to tell you how great you are and give you some inspiring words to live by…. The Buddha said, “Each morning, we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.” So each morning, be grateful to have the opportunity to make the world a better place one small step at at time (even if it’s as simple as giving a stranger a smile). Remember: never hate, don’t worry, live simply, expect a little, give a lot, and always smile. I look forward to becoming you! Sincerely, Amy