Volume XXIII, Number 37 (Issue 1146) September 15, 2025
Letter to My Younger Self
The standard approach to letters to one’s younger self relies heavily on an autobiographical model. This is done, I think, for a variety of reasons, ranging from providing context for the lessons learned to self-aggrandizement or penance to honoring the individuals and events that were integral to those life lessons. The initial draft of today’s essay followed that model. But halfway through, I realized that it would make for an exceptionally long missive that few would find interesting. So, instead of boring you with the high and low lights of my life story I will respect your time by cutting to the chase. The only context I will provide is that the vast majority of the lessons I will offer today were learned the hard way. I share those lessons in the hope that some will relate while others will save themselves from some poor and possibly expensive decisions.
Thus, without further preface or ado, here are some things I learned.
Due to some early career success, you will fall victim to the success paradox – thinking you are God’s gift to your employers. Wrong! You are neither the be-all end-all or anyone’s savior. So, get over yourself!
Get over the fear of hearing the word “No!” A bungled sales call, being turned down for a job or when asking someone out on a date as well as similar instances of rejection do not mean a door is permanently closed. Persistence and making a good first impression can eventually lead to “yes,” and a win.
Having a partner and helpmate who has your back no matter what and who will speak truth to you can make all the difference in the world. Two heads are in fact better than one. I would add do not waste your time trying to “fix” that partner. You were attracted to them because those differences are a big part of what completes you. Yin and yang are real.
Listen with the intent to learn, not respond.
Devote the majority of your time to the things that truly matter. Be disciplined with both your time and treasure. Learn to recognize the difference between wants and needs.
Maintain a healthy routine. Take care of your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Embrace an attitude of service to others. Do so without expectation of any quid pro quo or recognition. Instead, be content with the knowledge you made a positive difference in someone else’s life. Community service is a great means of accomplishing that.
Pay it forward.
Commit to life-long learning. That must include learning from your mistakes.
Identify and play to your strengths.
Be a person of high integrity and you will be known as an individual of good character.
Be patient with others. Also, refrain from holding grudges. Forgive others as well as yourself. When it comes to others, you have no idea of the challenges, circumstances, and prejudices they are experiencing so be quick to give them grace.
Seek God’s will for your life. As part of that, listen for and to the Holy Spirit, especially when it comes to the important decisions in your life. If you are really paying attention, you will also find that same Spirit is impacting many of the seemingly insignificant things in your life.
Soli Deo Gloria
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33
J. Keith Hughey
Mobile: (210) 260-0955
E-mail: keith@jkeithhughey.com
Website: www.jkeithhughey.com
Transforming Potential into Unmatched Performance
Copyright 2025 by J. Keith Hughey. All rights reserved. Permission is hereby granted for reproduction and redistribution of this essay as provided under the copyright laws of the United States of America. Recent issues of Musings may be found at www.jkeithhughey.com. Your comments are always welcome.