Ah, 18. It’s the time of life when you’re, as the poet hath wrote, “not a girl, not yet a woman.” It’s when the future is equal parts scary and exciting, and you always wish you could talk to the future you just to see how things pan out.
And while we don’t have a time machine, we do have a few magic words of wisdom from the past five years of Soirée‘s classes of Women to Watch. (And yes, we need reminders of these thoughts just as much today as we did back when.)
“Don’t get the degree for the job you think will make you most employable. Instead, study what you love and then figure out how to make a living.”
“The power of your words will always matter. Speak wisely and listen more.”
“You can’t do everything on your own. It’s ok to ask for help.”
“Always set your goals high, meet them and then set higher goals.”
“Seek opportunities to help others fulfill their potential and their dreams.”
“Don’t be afraid of being assertive or refusing disrespect.”
“Listen, 18-year-old Romona. You are enough. You are smart enough; strong enough and tough enough.”
“Stay focused on achieving one goal at a time. You are not a good multi-tasker.”
“Just breathe and do your best. After that, it’s out of your hands.”
“Do not be overly focused on one path to success. Be more open to all possibilities and know that there are many ways to reach your destination. And once you get there, don’t be surprised if you change your mind.”
“Skip the tanning bed and don’t cry over boys.”
“Seize opportunities when they appear, no matter how much unknown or uncertainty they present.”
“Always choose kindness and respect over personal gain.”
“Forgive. Forgive again.”
“Don’t worry, no one else really knows what they’re doing either.”