Every year, International Men’s Day serves as a moment to reflect on the journey of manhood, celebrate achievements, and address the challenges faced by men across the world. This year, the theme resonates deeply: “Embracing Growth and Self-Reflection.”
In the spirit of this theme, we asked a group of men from diverse backgrounds to take a trip down memory lane and write heartfelt letters to their younger selves. These letters are filled with lessons learned, truths uncovered, and wisdom they wish they had known in their formative years.
From career advice to mental health awareness, navigating relationships, and embracing vulnerability, these reflections reveal the universal struggles and triumphs of becoming the man they are today. Their stories remind us all that growth is a continuous journey and that the lessons of yesterday can guide us to a brighter tomorrow.
Join us as we explore these deeply personal and inspiring letters—a tribute to growth, resilience, and the men who continue to evolve while inspiring others to do the same.
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Dear Younger Me,
Looking back, I see a boy trying to figure it all out, but life threw so many challenges my way. I wish I could sit with myself and share the lessons I’ve learned since then lessons that came the hard way but shaped who I am today.
- Take Risks Early:
I remember when Dad wanted me to go to the USA for my master’s. Visa in hand, everything ready, but I was scared because I felt too young and lonely. That was my chance to step out of my comfort zone, and I let fear hold me back. Being young and far from home was intimidating, but those were the moments that could have built me.
- Focus on Growth, Not Perfection:
I felt the pressure to have it all figured out, but now I know that nobody has it all together. Back then, I was chasing perfection instead of progress. Life is about taking one step at a time and learning along the way.
- Prioritize My Mental Health:
I fainted twice in university because of the pressure I put on myself those days of doing “Yahoo” and not sleeping for days really took a toll. I was chasing something that wasn’t worth sacrificing my health. Rest and taking care of my mind and body should have been my priorities.
- Choose My Circle Wisely:
My uni days were tough. I surrounded myself with friends who smoked and did hard drugs, and I fell into the same habits. It wrecked my grades and left me with regrets when Dad found out. Those moments hurt. I lost trust and time. If I could tell myself one thing, it’s this: my friends influence my future, and I should have chosen wisely.
- Invest in Knowledge and Skills:
Look at me now, learning tech and building a future for myself. Imagine if I had started this back then, using my youthful energy to grow skills that aligned with my passion. But it’s never too late, and I’m proud of myself for starting now.
- Save and Plan Financially:
I had 100k a month in uni, blowing it on drugs, smokes, and unnecessary things because I thought it would never run out. It ran out, didn’t it? Those days taught me the importance of saving, planning, and respecting money.
- Express Gratitude and Love:
I shouldn’t have let pride or distractions stop me from telling people I care. I had people who loved and supported me even when I stumbled. I should have shown them how much they meant to me.
- Stay True to My Values:
I compromised so much back then just to fit in. Smoking, hard drugs, and trying to live a lifestyle that wasn’t mine cost me a lot. But now I know my integrity is priceless. I should never have traded it for temporary acceptance.
- Celebrate Small Wins:
I felt like nothing I did was enough. I was so focused on the big milestones that I didn’t notice the small victories. Every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.
- Be Kind to Myself:
I made mistakes, but that’s what life is about falling and getting back up. I see now that every setback was a lesson. I’ve learned to forgive myself, learn from those moments, and keep pushing forward. I’ve survived so much, and I’ll continue to thrive.
Plenty of things, plenty of lessons. Those years were tough, but they shaped me into someone stronger, wiser, and more determined. If only I could see then what I see now a man who’s turning his life around and building something amazing. I’m not done yet, but I’m on the right path, and I’m proud of myself.
With love and understanding,
My Older Self
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If I could go back in time and meet my younger self, I would give myself a huge pat on the back for the hard work and dedication I put into learning and developing so many skills. It’s amazing to see how those efforts have paid off and are still bearing fruit today. And even though I’ve come a long way, I’m still on the same journey I started all those years ago, continually growing and evolving.
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Kudos to my younger self for being bold enough to step out of my comfort zone. Taking that risk and making the move earlier on really paid off, and I’m super proud of the progress I’ve made.
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Dear Tolu, you have a good head above your shoulders and a good heart, stay strong and maintain narrow focus on the prize ahead.
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Dear Lil Emmy,
I know life feels overwhelming right now. The world around you seems like a storm, and you’re battling through moments of deep self-doubt, feeling like you need to hide who you are. The days of being bullied weigh heavily on you but I’m here to tell you that this is not the end of your story but it’s only the beginning of something truly powerful.
One day, you will become someone whose zeal for helping others and developing human potential lights up every room you walk into. That small, quiet voice inside you that whispers about creating change, nurturing talent and making a difference, never let it be drowned out.
As you move through the trials ahead, remember this: it’s okay to be vulnerable. The very things that make you feel different today will become the source of your greatest strength. Your experiences will fuel your empathy, your ability to connect with others, and your dedication to fostering growth in those around you. You will learn that true strength lies not in shielding yourself from the world but in stepping into it fully, with compassion and integrity.
When things gets tough, remind yourself of the young boy who once struggled but chose not to give up. Know that your future self, an HR professional, a learning & development expert, a mentor, a friend, and a voice of positive change will look back and thank you for every small step you took forward.
In a few years, Life will present opportunities to share your wisdom, lead others and create lasting impact, so embrace them. Your passion for people development, your drive to take on responsibilities and your commitment to exemplary leadership will leave an indelible mark.
You are destined to lead initiatives that uplift, and be a beacon of encouragement for those who come after you. So, hold on, keep going, and know that your future is brighter than you ever dared to hope.
With Love,
From: BIG EMMY
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As we celebrate International Men’s Day, these letters to younger selves remind us of the importance of reflection, growth, and vulnerability in the journey of manhood. Each story carries a universal truth: while life may not come with a manual, the lessons we gather along the way shape who we become and how we show up for others.
Whether it’s offering advice, healing from past struggles, or simply extending kindness to themselves, these men exemplify the power of self-awareness and resilience. Their words remind us that every experience—good or bad—can teach us something valuable.
As you read these letters, take a moment to reflect on your own journey. What would you tell your younger self? Let this be a call to not only celebrate men but to encourage one another to embrace growth, share wisdom, and support each other in building a brighter future for all.
Here’s to the lessons of the past, the strength of the present, and the hope for tomorrow. Happy International Men’s Day!
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Credit: All letters were compiled and collated by Amanda Osagiede
