To the girl with the World on Her Shoulders

Dear 16-year-old Joyce,

First of all, happy birthday to you!

picture is mine

I know you just tossed that diary under your pillow, tears streaming down your face as you feel lost and overwhelmed. I know you’re unsure about what the future holds. You’ve been wondering and worrying about what’s yet to come. But you know what? It’s okay.

It’s okay not to have everything figured out. Life unfolds step by step, and that’s what makes it beautiful. You’re just sixteen, after all! How does it feel to be sixteen? I honestly can’t remember now, but I imagine it’s a mix of excitement and uncertainty.All those worries swirling in your mind? They’ll pass. Everything happens in its time, even when it feels like you’re walking blind.

I know you feel the weight of being the first child, especially the first daughter. You feel like the world rests on your shoulders. But listen closely: it’s okay to make mistakes. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Those very mistakes will become the foundation of your strength. Just keep striving to become a better version of yourself every day. That first-daughter discipline you’ve cultivated? It will pay off in ways you can’t yet imagine. You can take my words.

I see the dreams you pour into your diary—becoming an amazing medical professional and a great writer. What if I told you the journey won’t go exactly as you planned? Life isn’t linear, Joyce. There will be ups and downs, twists and turns. Don’t limit yourself to one path. Be open minded, and trust that everything will align when the time is right.

You’ll learn a hard truth: not all friendships last forever. And that’s okay. Some friends are for seasons, not lifetimes. And yes, there will be moments of loneliness. You can’t escape it. But remember this: never be so hungry that you settle for poison. Find happiness within yourself first.

As for love? Men will come into your life—some as friends, others seeking more. Be wise. Make decisions without seeking validation from anyone else. You are enough. You are worthy. Take your time and ensure that any relationship you choose is based on your desires, not pressure. Trust me, you’ll meet someone good when the time is right.

Don’t be afraid to take risks, even if they seem scary. Start that business, live your age, and stop trying to prove anything to anyone but yourself. Failure is inevitable, but it’s also transformative. Those failures will be stepping stones to your greatness. I can guarantee that.

School will be a challenge, but remember what Mom always says: “School is a world of its own.” Be smart, focused, and kind. You’ll meet all kinds of people, and you’ll learn both the easy way and the hard way. No matter how tough things get, it’s never too late to take your studies seriously.

You might feel overwhelmed by your many talents, unsure how to be productive with them all. That’s okay. One day, frustration will push you to seek clarity, and you’ll discover Ikigai, the Japanese concept of finding your reason for being. It will help you align your talents and passions with your purpose, giving you a sense of direction you’ve ever longed for.

I designed this with the Canva app

Above all, Joyce, do what you love. Let your strengths guide you, and don’t let fear hold you back. Life is not just black and white, it’s full of vibrant colors waiting to be painted.Sixteen looks amazing on you. Celebrate it, embrace it, and know that your future self is rooting for you every step of the way.

With love and wisdom,
Your future self.

PS: today is not my birthday, it is only the letter I wrote to my younger self on my birthday.

Thank you for reading the letter to my younger self.

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