Looking Back with Empathy

Looking Back with Empathy—A Lesson from My 19-Year-Old Self

Have you ever stumbled upon an old journal and cringed at your younger self’s dramatics? I did—and it was both eye-opening and humbling. As I read through pages of heartbreak, self-doubt, and over-the-top emotions, I found myself judging the 19-year-old me… until I realized something important.

We often forget how intense and real those experiences felt at the time. As parents, mentors, or simply older versions of ourselves, it’s easy to roll our eyes at young people’s struggles. But if we take a step back, we see their growth, their learning, and their journey toward becoming who they are meant to be.

In this video, I share my reflections on revisiting my past, what it taught me about empathy, and why it’s so important to truly listen to the young adults in our lives. Watch now—and let me know if you’ve ever had a moment like this!