Every scar has a story. “Letter to My Younger Self” invites you into the reflective hearts of people who've walked winding roads—offering gentle truths, bold lessons, and encouragement for anyone still figuring it out. These weekly letters are full of grace and grit, showing how setbacks shape wisdom and how the past still holds power to teach. From nurturing curiosity to embracing mentorship, each piece is a tribute to growth through lived experience.
Josephine Mayuya, Chief Sub-editor at Radio Africa Group pens this week’s heartfelt Letter to My Younger Self.
Dear Younger Self,
Under no circumstances should you pick Geography over history, when doing your subject selection. Who cares how mountains were formed! The Geography classes are a trial and a half!
Now that that’s out of the way, let’s get down to real life. Don’t overthink your choices. So what if you make mistakes along the way? Fall. Pick yourself up and try again.
You will find that no matter how much you tiptoe around life, bad things will always happen, through no fault of your own sometimes. So don’t be scared of putting a foot wrong. Don’t second-guess yourself too much. Sometimes, just close your eyes and take the plunge.
One thing you may have noticed is that everyone is quick to ‘advise’ you to live life a certain way. “As a girl, you should sit this way.” “Proper young girls laugh with moderation, not raucously.” “You’re a Christian, how dare you…”
Don’t get me wrong, there is a lot to be desired in being a decent person. The world sometimes seems to be in serious want of decent people.
However, don’t let society’s idea of what a good girl/Christian should look like, hold you back from living life. Go ahead and do what your heart desires.
I’m not saying be reckless. By all means, walk circumspectly. But how will you know what pitfalls to avoid if you lead a sheltered life? How will you know diplomacy and dispute resolution if you hold yourself back because good girls/Christians don’t argue, fight back or challenge authority?
You are good at drawing lines and setting boundaries, and sticking by them. Don’t ever let go of that. It will stand you in good stead in years to come.
While it may seem economically sound to continue living with mum and dad long after you have found a job and are financially sound, I would advise you to rethink it. Move out of home two or three years after you get your first job. You will thank me later.
Blessed is the hand that gives more than the one that receives. Oh, how true this will be proven over and over in your life. Word of caution, however, do not let people take advantage of you.
Be very selective in the causes you choose to support. It is not your life’s assignment to finish the world’s problems, or individuals’ problems for that matter.
You do you. The world will not give you a trophy for putting others first. When it is within your means to be of help to your fellow human(s) do so, but not at your expense
Invest aggressively. Every few months or so, do something out of your comfort zone. Say ‘hi’ to a stranger once a week.
Make morning jogs or walks a lifelong habit and cut back on the chips, crisps and sweet snacks. Twenty-seven should be the cut-off year for indulging in junk food.
Sleep more. Don’t lose your passion for reading or learning something new every day. It will come in handy during conversations in serious circles. Guard against complacency. Don’t ask me how, do self-introspection.
Finally, don’t – I repeat, don’t – let daddy take you to a primary boarding school. Throw a tantrum; feign illness. Okay, maybe that’s not our style. Just fail the interview exam. It will save you years of misery. And if that does not work, go back to Plan A—throw a tantrum.
Everyone has a story worth sharing. If you’ve ever wished you could talk to your younger self—with wisdom, forgiveness, or clarity—we invite you to write to us. Your real, heartfelt letter might just be the encouragement someone else needs today. You may remain anonymous if preferred, but your truth matters. We don’t pay contributors, but we believe in the power of shared experience. Join us in building a collection of life’s hard-earned lessons and gentle reminders.
Be part of this movement. Send your Letter to My Younger Self to: [email protected]
