Can you believe it? 2023 is here! So many things happened last year, and it’s easy to get lost in the notion that you should have a long list of achievements or feats under your belt. But how do you even measure success? This open letter is a reminder of how you’ve amazingly handled the last year. 

Dear future self

Hi! How have you been? 

Hopefully, things are going well wherever you are right now because you’re one busy bee. Always on your feet, making sure everyone’s okay. But on the contrary, it’s quite comical to hope everything’s fine, isn’t it? Because life always has a way of reminding us some circumstances won’t go our way — whether we like it or not. That in this cosmos, we aren’t as powerful as we think. 

It’s been a tough year

And no, you don’t need to pretend that your life has been sunshine and rainbows. There’s nothing wrong with being vulnerable and honest. Don’t be fooled by well-curated social media feeds, where everything looks perfect and people living on a YOLO mindset. It’s been one hell of a roller coaster ride. COVID-19 is still a threat, millions of people have lost their jobs, and commodity prices are breaking people’s wallets. Whatever you’re feeling, don’t bottle it up. 

Moments of uncertainty

Looking around, it might feel like the universe doesn’t want to see you win. There are moments when you feel trapped in an endless hollow of your own emotions. That no matter what you do or achieve, you don’t see yourself as worthy of anything.

But that’s not true. You’re worthy. 

You deserve to be happy — all the best things in life.

You kept going

Like the warrior that you are, you get out of bed and face life head-on. It doesn’t matter if you’re confronting snarky, mean co-workers, the struggle to make ends meet, judgmental families, or unbearable agony. Your spirit is unbreakable and your courage unmatched.

So, in case no one has told you yet, I’m very proud of you.

Be open to new experiences

As a new chapter of your life begins, don’t stop going after your ambitions, little dreamer. The universe always listens to what your heart says, and it will lead you to destinations or people that’ll change your life beyond what you can imagine. 

Embrace change

If you want to tread a different journey, go for it. As long as you’re not intentionally hurting anyone, you’re on the right path.  I know, change can be scary. But sometimes, it’s what you need to become the best version of yourself. Life changes also mark hopeful beginnings and a new purpose. 

Live in the moment. Live your truth.

It’s okay if you’re not everyone’s cup of tea. Don’t spend your life impressing others as if you have something to prove. That’s exhausting — for real. As cliché as it may sound, there’s nothing more beautiful than being authentically you. The right people will come and love who you are, no questions asked. Trust me.

2023, here I come!

With everything that happened this year, I hope you give yourself that little pat on the shoulder for getting through it all. Whatever 2023 holds, you can overcome it. The beautiful thing about life is you can always begin again, no matter how many times you think things won’t get better. How do I know? Because you’re one strong soul. Always remember that. 

Happy New Year! 

Sincerely,

Your past self