Advice To A Younger Me

Azam Hassan

As a kid, I never truly understood the value of advice from someone older than myself, but at a certain point in life, you realise that it’s basically a cheat sheet to life or, at the very least, a hint for the future. 

I could honestly go on and on about advice that I would give my younger self. I would always start it with two words: slow down. As a child everything is fast-paced and growth is rapid.  Nothing quite stays the same. I would advise one to spend as much time with loved ones as one can and not just that, but to truly take it in. Love as much as you can, fully, with all your heart because everyone will leave. Family or friends, the sad reality is they will all move on one way or the other and the time you had with them will not return. 

Also, take every chance you can to enjoy yourself before you are forced to miss out. Never say no to an adventure, a trip or a vacation. You never know what’s around the corner that will stop you from such times like work, sickness or a global pandemic. I’m not saying overindulge and never be at home or don’t spend time with yourself. Rather, take every opportunity you can and grab it by the horns. 

Lastly, I would say to not stress too much about your future. I mean, don’t neglect tomorrow but don’t dwell on your worries. Live every day better than the last and it will fall into place, possibly better than you have ever imagined. 

Ending this with a rapid-fire of some more advice: befriend your parents sooner, learn to socialise better, pick up a new language, take more photos and videos, socialise with community elders and listen to their stories.  

Hilal Newsletter

Azam Hassan, Contributor

Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia Azam Hassan holds a bachelor’s in accounting and finance. He is interested in developing his writing skills by creatively challenging himself through Hilal Newsletter.