The Only Two People You Should Try to Impress

As a teenager, I was always trying to impress someone. Whether it was the crowd at a sporting event or a girl at the mall, I sought validation in the words and reactions of others. I couldn't conjure self-acceptance, so I continued seeking.

Hey, look at me! Yeah, no thanks.

If we must impress anyone in this life, let it be two people: The child self and the older self.

First is the child self, living in awe of the world and its majesty. When all was potential and possibility, outside opinions and expectations couldn't stunt the imagination, no matter how wild. This version, the fragile dreamer, looked up to a mountainous future and tied her boots. Strive to impress that version of yourself.

With all of life ahead, imagine how it would feel for them to see what you have achieved and endured. Imagine them walking up to admire your face, running their fingertips across the plot lines around your eyes and tracing the stories—seeing the only place they could have led: To this very moment.

Wow, look at all you have done for us. I'm proud of you. It must have been hard living those years and keeping your eyes on the path. Let's walk the rest of the way together.

Then, look to your older version, nearing the end of the journey and reflecting on a well-lived life. Imagine what they might say to the current version of you many years from now.

Thank you for not abandoning us. You may have strayed, but then, when it was so easy to give up and wave the white flag, you realized that this life, this one precious life, was worth it.

Be kind and say thank you to yourself for showing up, day after day.

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