Note to My Younger Self

Tatler asks seven individuals to write their personal retrospectives on lessons they have learnt in life

MIGUEL PASTOR Architect

Dear younger Miguel,

Don’t take things too seriously. You often take things too personally and you are quite sensitive. In school, you always made sure you would study hard and achieve academic excellence. Sometimes, you would miss out on being with friends and engaging in social activities to prioritise my studies. Social skills were something you weren’t able to cultivate earlier on. In the real world it’s all about having good relationships and a good network of friends and contacts which will get you through many important situations.

Value friends you have growing up. They will be your source of strength, inspiration and guidance, who will keep you grounded as you navigate through life. I continue to survive this pandemic through the support of family and friends.

Don’t worry about what others think of you and what they are doing. Each of us have a different life purpose. Don’t think negatively about yourself. You must know your strengths and use them wisely. Identify and work on improving your weaknesses. Do not compare your life with others. Look back where you were ten years ago and be grateful for the blessings that have come your way.

Learn to embrace the changes in your life. It’s not going to be smooth sailing all the time. You will face many difficult and challenging situations in life. You must learn to be tough and resilient to survive them all.

Finally, take care of yourself. Develop good habits—exercise and have a proper diet. These you will keep for life and help you live a long fruitful life.

All the best,
Miguel

GIANNA MONTINOLA

SVP for corporate affairs at Far Eastern University and co-founder of Hands On Manila

Dear Gianna,