Hindsight Insights II

Last summer I blogged about Hindsight Insights, those powerful-bombshell-wisdom-nuggets. You know, the things we've learned along the way and wish we could sneak back in time and share with our 18 year old self. I was amazed at the wisdom those nine folks shared so I decided to see what responses I'd receive by posing that question on Facebook. 

Here's the advice offered—

• Follow your heart and don't let others push you off course.

• Never take what you have for granted, especially people. Spend more time with loved ones and listen to their stories. Because once they're gone, they are gone. 

• Travel and get out of your bubble.

• Despite all the bad things that happen—no matter how painful—you turn out great. Have faith in yourself.

• Look for the good in situations and don't focus on the bad. Think through decisions and avoid acting on impulse.

• Think beyond five years and plan accordingly.

• There is a man God has picked for you. But first grow up and come into your own so that you will be ready. You deserve the best.

• Listen to your parents more. They may not appear smart now, but one day you'll believe they were geniuses and they can even predict the future.

• Trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding. Pray.

Amazing advice. Simple wisdom and yet, each profound. Great words to inspire young folks.

Then I was struck by new clarity as I evaluated the answers from the summer and those above.

No one mentioned money, or better paying jobs, or wishing for more education, or working harder.

Most answers revolve around relationships. To loved ones and to oneself.

Other nuggets offer advice on life choices like how you invest your time (travel more, do it now, balance life better between work, children and social life), or like how to not rush the big decisions (waiting on marriage until you're established better, listen to your parents more, plan further than five years, avoid acting on impulse), or like how to trust your instincts more (follow your heart, maintain your course, have faith in yourself and don't be so critical).

Again, I'm enlightened, entertained and encouraged by such diverse wise hindsights. 

And I'm not the only one pondering this question. Check out what Steve Harvey would say to his twenty year old self. More deeply inspired advice that we can use at any age.

And since we're all on this journey called LIFE, why not expose our unique wisdom to others along the way?

May we always be people who aspire to learn from our past, love our present, and live authentic futures.

What do you think? Do you have some insight to offer others? Please share.

Tammy Van Gils is a writer, blogger, and co-owner of S & N Paint Contractors, Inc. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Word Weavers International. In the Richmond area, she is a member of The Christian Writers Hub and Word Weavers Richmond. Visit her Facebook Page, Pinterest and Twitter @Tammyvangils.