I recently read a post from Sir Richard Branson to his former self aged 25. In #ChallengeRichard, he was challenged to write a letter to his 10, 25, 50 and 65 year old self. His thoughts sent me digressing as I pondered what I would write if I was faced with the same proposition.

My letter to my 25 year old self

Dear MJ,

I am writing to you from 24 years in the future. You are now 49 and whilst you have had an amazing adventure there is some advice I would share.

The purpose of school is to teach you resilience. Look back on each knock as a mere stepping stone in your journey. Those that matter stay and those that hurt you fade. Treasure the memories made with your four best friends, for they will always be with you in life. Your father was right; you are no good till you are 30. So study hard and learn as many of life's lessons as you are afforded.

At 29 you will be diagnosed with a life-changing illness, Multiple Sclerosis. Don’t panic, for although it will shape you, it will not define you. Your best life still awaits you for your diagnosis sees you start an award winning business at age 30. Your dreams and aspirations are what will get out of bed every morning; so sleep well and dream big, for others do not create your journey. People will partner with you for a moment, and some may even be near you a while, but few will share the same vision and passion. No one is as committed to your growth and success as you are, so look inwards for strength and remain steadfast. Many you meet will not be with you for each step of your journey, so don't look outwards for strength and courage, look inwards and believe.... in yourself.

34 is the year that sees you find your life partner. He is strong, he is courageous and he stands on his own. What makes him different from the others is his selfless approach; he stands right beside you and shares in your hope. You never have children but that’s really not an issue, for if anyone dies….you are surrounded by five!

By 38 your definition of success has evolved. You are starting to share in and enjoy life’s celebrations. Your business weathers the storms and provides intense moments of reward. But by far the best memories you acquire come from time spent with others, so be generous with your time and travel with those who love adventure.

40 is one of your favourite milestones. You spend it surrounded by family and the greatest of friends. Gifts that you longed for arrive; your first Louis Vuitton! You are content, optimistic and inspired by what has been. But most importantly you are listening, to an inner voice that is settling and lets you remain focused on what still lies ahead.

49 is your best year, of that there’s no doubt. For that is the year that you chose AWESOME* over average and never look back. No matter what life throws at you, no matter what lessons unfold, you were 100% ready to be brave and be bold!
It may have taken you half a lifetime to have reached where you are, but my message to you is simple:

Be bold, build resilience, be AWESOME*; be you!

* AWESOME - Be the best YOU that you can be!