Three Things I’d Tell My Younger Self

by Joanna Cannon

smallest decisions can make the biggest difference to our lives – and the lives of those around us. A postcard about a first aid course, pinned in a newsagent’s window, led me to a degree in medicine. A chance tweet about a mentoring programme for writers began my journey to becoming a published author. Seemingly small moments which, further down the road, turned out to be very big moments indeed. These moments not only change the direction

Comparing yourself to other people will never make you happy.

Count your blessings. There will always be people better off or worse off than you. Recognise all the goodness in your life. These things are health, love, and life.

Wisdom is knowing when to stop. This applies in a variety of contexts: add a subtle amount of spice, whether in cooking or in conversation. Children often don’t know when to stop, adults often should know but don’t.

I have so many things to be thankful for. I’ve travelled, I’m in good health, I’m surrounded by amazing family and friends, and I’ve been given opportunities in life. Like writing this to you.

Looking back, life is far more about what appears to be happenchance, the casual encounter, the unexpected turn in the road you took almost by mistake. It’s about the footpaths and bridleways as much as the A roads.

2. Don’t care about what people who don’t know you, think of you.

The more open you are to possibilities, the more those possibilities will open up. And be especially receptive to those who are generous and kind. Love and be loved.

I took no notes, or rarely did, in class. But, more significantly, I did not keep a journal or a notebook until my 50s. I had the mistaken belief that I would remember everything without doubt. But, I have no record of my reflections or experiences until my early 50s. I most certainly would recommend to my young self that contemporaneous records are mandatory.

Those people bullying you don’t hate you, they hate themselves. Try not to take it personally, and don’t stop being you. And tell someone about it.

Be the best person you can be, rather than trying to be someone else. Be prepared to step away from the crowd rather than conforming to other people’s expectations to gain acceptance.

So often people convince themselves they are not capable of flying a plane, running a marathon, hitch-hiking around the world. The truth is, we are all so much more capable than we believe. You just have to find the courage to step up and push yourself. To fulfil our aspirations, we have to believe in ourselves and our ability to learn and persevere. Don’t be afraid of failure; learn to laugh at yourself and be grateful for the gift of life.