Happiness and success are different things: Advice for your younger self

Not all of us a given the opportunity to go back in time like Marty McFly, but if you did, this man’s advice may be what we would tell our younger selves.

back to the future advice to younger self

WHEN Abhinav Shahi answered a simple questions about what he would say to his younger self online, he had no idea his answer would take off like it did.

The question was asked on Quora, a questions and answer website run by the users. His answer has been viewed over 30,000 times and voted for by over 600 people. Here is his answer.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Be careful with how you define your identity. Some people define themselves by their work, or their religion etc. But remember the words of Camus, “A reason to live can quickly become a reason to die”.

The only person you have a right to judge is yourself. So stop judging others and start minding your own work.

Learn to let go of friends/lovers who’re not as enthused by the relationship you think you share. Walk away from a relationship if you have to keep putting in all the effort for it to stay afloat.

Never complain about too many things. Always remember — the life that you are living now is still a dream of millions and you will also want it back tomorrow.

Give an effort and try to put a curb on all negative thoughts. After all, we are nothing but a product of our thoughts.

Realise that nobody cares, and if they do, you shouldn’t care that they care.

Hug your Mom/Dad and say, “I love you so much!”: They will be so confused. Then they’ll be happy and then they will ask, “What do you want this time?” or maybe, “What did you do this time?”

Happiness and success are two different things.

Better to put your heart on the line, risk everything, and walk away with nothing than play it safe. Life is a lot of things, but “safe” isn’t one of them.

You will never gain anyone’s approval by begging for it. When you stand confident in your own worth, respect follows.

What would you say to your younger self?