The best part about Growing up is not giving a damn. When I was Young, I dreamt of becoming rich and famous. In my mind’s eye, only making millions of dollars and having millions of faithful fans would do. I had to prove to the world that I was a force to be reckoned with. Nowadays, I could care less about becoming rich and famous. I am happy with having my needs met rather than living in the lap of luxury. I would tell my young self to take it easy and be realistic.

When I went through puberty the smallest things would send me into a frenzy. I was one of those socially awkward teenagers who was always the butt of the joke. When someone would say the wrong thing to me, I would dwell on it for days. My mind would revolve around the incident, taking me deeper into the shame. Nowadays, when people says the wrong things as people do, I shake it off and move on with my day. Social situations no longer define me. I would tell my younger self that people will be people any way you slice it.

Freedom is one the best parts of growing up. The freedom to do whatever I please, without having the watchful eyes of my parents hovering over me is a blessing. When I was young my parents would dictate how I would spend my day. From going to school to curfew, I hated it all- I am a person not an animal to be kept caged. In hindsight, my parent’s rules were probably a good thing for me, otherwise who knows what I would have done. I can think of few things. Wink!

You cannot pay for the peace that comes to the mind when a person grows up. My mind was like an untamed horse. My thoughts would jump from one fancy to the next. The reigns have now been put on my mind. My mind has become more stable and peaceful. I would tell my younger self to calm down!

Lastly, at a young age I hated my own company. I hated the company of others and of myself. During the weekend, I had to be socially active even though I did not even enjoy partying. If no one called me I would feel like a loser who had no friends. Nowadays, I enjoy my own company. There is quiet and peace in the presence of myself. My own thoughts are no longer a heavy burden. I can spend the weekend at home and take some down time. I would tell my younger self to stop seeking the approval of others and don’t be scared of yourself!

I want to stay old forever! I never want to grow young.