Dear Younger Azad Jasmi,
As I reflect upon the experiences and lessons life has taught me, I can’t help but think about the challenges you, as a young kampung boy, will face on your journey. Life can be both beautiful and daunting, filled with ups and downs, but I want to impart some advice, wisdom, and knowledge to help you navigate the path ahead. Stay strong, be tough, and let the world know that you are ready to face whatever comes your way.
First things first
- Embrace Your Roots: Never forget where you come from, Azad. Your kampung upbringing is a source of strength and resilience. It has instilled in you the values of humility, community, and hard work. Cherish those values and let them guide you in every aspect of your life. Remember that your roots will always be your foundation, grounding you in times of uncertainty and reminding you of the importance of staying true to yourself.
- Cultivate Mental and Emotional Strength: Life can be challenging, and there will be moments when you feel overwhelmed and tested. But, my dear younger self, remember that strength comes from within. Nurture your mental and emotional well-being. Develop healthy coping mechanisms, such as practising mindfulness, seeking support from loved ones, and embracing self-care. These habits will serve as your armor, helping you overcome obstacles with resilience and a positive mindset.
- Embrace Failure as a Stepping Stone to Success: Failure is not the end, but rather a stepping stone on your journey to success. Don’t be afraid to take risks and pursue your dreams. Understand that setbacks and disappointments are part of the learning process. Learn from them, adapt, and keep moving forward. Remember that true strength lies not in avoiding failure, but in how you rise from it and persevere.
- Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: The people you choose to surround yourself with will greatly impact your life. Seek out individuals who uplift and inspire you, who believe in your potential, and who encourage you to grow. Surround yourself with positive influences that align with your values and aspirations. Together, you will forge a support system that empowers you to conquer any challenges that may come your way.
- Embrace Continuous Learning: Life is a journey of continuous learning and growth. Stay curious, be open-minded, and embrace new experiences. Seek knowledge in various forms, be it through formal education, books, mentors, or life lessons. Embrace the opportunity to expand your horizons, challenge your beliefs, and discover your passions. Remember that true strength comes not only from physical toughness but also from a well-nourished mind and a thirst for knowledge.
Image | Mekanika
Embracing strength and wisdom to avoid life’s pitfalls
As I continue to reflect on life’s journey, I feel compelled to share not only the advice, wisdom, and knowledge I mentioned earlier but also the mistakes I’ve made along the way. By learning from these missteps, you can navigate life more effectively and avoid unnecessary pitfalls. So, my dear younger self, here are the mistakes I made and the lessons I’ve learned to help you steer clear of similar challenges.
- Rushing into Decisions: One of the most common mistakes I made was rushing into decisions without considering the long-term consequences. I urge you to take your time, gather information, and weigh the pros and cons before making any significant choices. Seek advice from trusted mentors and loved ones who can provide valuable insights. Remember, patience is a virtue that will serve you well in making informed and thoughtful decisions.
- Neglecting Self-Care: In the pursuit of success and achievements, I often neglected self-care, both physically and mentally. This led to burnout and a decline in overall well-being. I implore you to prioritize self-care and establish healthy habits early on. Nurture your physical health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient rest. Equally important is tending to your mental and emotional well-being through mindfulness, stress management techniques, and seeking support when needed.
- Fearing Failure and Taking Risks: For the longest time, I allowed the fear of failure to hold me back from taking risks and pursuing my dreams. I urge you not to make the same mistake. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and stepping stone to success. Take calculated risks, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace new challenges. Remember, growth and progress often require stepping into the unknown. Believe in your abilities and have the courage to pursue your passions.
- Neglecting Relationships: In the pursuit of personal and professional goals, I sometimes neglected to nurture meaningful relationships. Remember, life’s joys are magnified when shared with loved ones. Invest time and effort in cultivating strong connections with family, friends, and mentors. These relationships will provide support, guidance, and a sense of belonging. Prioritize quality time, active listening, and showing appreciation for the important people in your life.
- Failing to Adapt and Learn: Change is inevitable, and I often resisted it, clinging to familiar routines and ways of thinking. I caution you against this mistake. Embrace change and be adaptable in the face of new circumstances. Cultivate a growth mindset that welcomes learning and continuous improvement. Stay open to new ideas, perspectives, and opportunities for personal and professional development. Remember, the ability to adapt is a testament to your strength and resilience.
As you embark on your life’s journey, I share these insights into the mistakes I’ve made to help you navigate with wisdom and foresight. Avoid rushing into decisions, prioritize self-care, embrace failure as a stepping stone, nurture relationships, and remain adaptable. Learn from my missteps and forge your path with purpose and resilience. With these lessons in mind, I have no doubt that you will lead a fulfilling and successful life, avoiding unnecessary pitfalls and embracing the best that life has to offer.
Conclusion
As you navigate the world, know that strength and toughness reside within you. Embrace your kampung roots, cultivate mental and emotional strength, embrace failure as a stepping stone to success, surround yourself with positive influences, and never stop learning.
The path ahead may not always be easy but remember that each challenge you face is an opportunity for growth. Stay strong, persevere, and believe in yourself, for you have the power to shape your own destiny. The world is waiting for you, ready to witness the remarkable person you are destined to become.
While navigating the complexities of life, always remember the value of staying close to your parents, to Allah, and to your loved ones. They are the pillars of support, guidance, and love that will anchor you through life’s challenges and triumphs. Nurture these relationships and cherish the bond you share.
Furthermore, in choosing your career path, prioritize doing what you love. Pursue your passions and interests, as they will ignite a fire within you and bring fulfillment to your days. Remember that work is not merely a means to an end, but an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world. Seek out opportunities that allow you to utilize your talents and skills to benefit others.
Lastly, embody the values of kindness and generosity. Help those in need, extend a helping hand, and strive to make a difference in the lives of others. By embracing compassion and selflessness, you will not only bring joy to those around you but also find profound fulfillment within yourself.
In this journey called life, remember to have faith, embrace love, and choose a path that aligns with your passions and values. Stay close to your parents, seek guidance from Allah, and cherish the love of your loved ones. With these principles at the core of your being, I have no doubt that you will lead a life of purpose, contentment, and fulfillment. May your path be blessed.
With heartfelt advice,
Your older self
