Dear Future Daughter,
Hello, my spirited girl! As you turn eighteen (which feels like an eternity away), I thought it was crucial to reach out. You might be rolling your eyes right now, thinking about all those moments when I was just “that annoying mom.” If you’re anything like I was at your age, we might not be on speaking terms, but hey, it’s worth a shot!
By the time you’re navigating the tumultuous waters of young adulthood, I’ll likely be dealing with my own set of challenges (hello, menopause!). So, let me share some key insights before we hit that rocky phase in our relationship. If all goes well and we’re the best of friends, I’ll happily share a pint of Ben & Jerry’s while handing you this letter, just to keep it real.
As you prepare to leave the nest (and I’m probably hiding in the bathroom, sobbing into a bottle of something strong), here are a few things I hope you experience during your early adult years before life tries to drain your joy:
- Let Loose Occasionally: Enjoy a night out with friends and savor the occasional overindulgence. Some of my most cherished memories come from those nights filled with laughter and too many cocktails. Just remember, if you do decide to have a few too many, steer clear of walking home alone, driving, or getting too cozy with a stranger, no matter how attractive they might seem. Trust me—waking up with a hangover is one thing, but dealing with unwanted “friends” is a whole other nightmare.
- Cultivate Friendships: Your twenties are the perfect time to form lasting bonds. You’ll spend plenty of nights out, lounging on couches, and enjoying carefree moments. As life progresses, those experiences will become rarer. Sure, you can bond over parenting challenges later, but nothing compares to those wild nights where you might find yourself in a rather questionable situation (not that I’m speaking from experience!).
- Choose Your Path Wisely: When it comes to your career, find something you’re passionate about, but keep in mind what they don’t tell you in career advice seminars. If you dream of family and children, seek a job that offers flexibility—because let’s be real, you won’t find a part-time heart surgeon or investment banker. I’d be bursting with pride if you were performing heart surgeries, but I’d also be the one stuck babysitting your little ones while you’re in the OR, and let’s just say, I’m not changing diapers!
- Dating Adventures: No matter who you choose to date, you’re bound to encounter a few less-than-desirable characters along the way. They might ghost you via text or date someone they just broke up with. Remember, every experience is a lesson in what you don’t want in a partner. One day, you’ll want someone who sees you as beautiful at every stage of life, from the moment you meet to when—let’s face it—gravity takes over!
- Always Keep the Lines Open: Even if our relationship hits a rough patch, know that you can talk to me about anything. I may not have all the answers, but I’m here for you—whether with a comforting treat or a listening ear. I love you more than words can express.
XOXOXO,
Your Loving Mom (or whatever nickname you’ve decided to call me by now)