Summary

The website content reflects on personal growth and the importance of not letting others' fears dictate one's life choices, emphasizing the value of maintaining one's own vision and learning from mistakes.

Abstract

The author of the web content, identified as an ENFJ personality type, shares a reflective piece addressing their younger self. They discuss the struggle of holding onto childhood innocence and imagination in the face of being labeled as naïve by others. The author admits to succumbing to external advice, which conflicted with their internal doubts, due to fear—both their own and that of others. These fears included concerns about financial security in creative endeavors, the author's aspirations to travel abroad, and the general apprehension of making life choices that might lead to mistakes. The author now takes pride in overcoming these fears, embracing the freedom to make their own choices, and learning from failures. They encourage other readers to reflect on their past and consider writing for "The Diarist" to share their own experiences and insights.

Opinions

The author believes in the beauty of a child's mindset and the importance of preserving one's innate sense of wonder and creativity.
They express regret for allowing others' opinions to overshadow their own intuition and reflections, particularly when making important life decisions.
The author identifies a key personality trait, being an ENFJ, and suggests that their "secret weapon is the purity of intent."
There is a recognition that fear, especially the fear of making mistakes, has been a significant inhibitor in their life, but they now see mistakes as opportunities for growth.
The author is proud of their current stance against fear and encourages others to release themselves from the fears that may be holding them back.
They advocate for parents to put aside their own fears and allow their children the freedom to make their own choices and learn from their experiences.
The author invites readers to engage with "The Diarist" by sharing their personal stories and to follow the publication for insightful diary entries.

THE DIARIST PROMPT

“Don’t Let Other People’s Fears Become Your Own”

This is what I’d say to my younger self

Seeing my younger self through the grown-up window — Photo by author

Week six, already.

So much to write!

I’ll definitely not respond to the prompts in the order, and in time. I think it doesn’t matter. It’s all about writing when the inspiration is there.

So, here is my thoughts in response to the inspiring prompt of week seven proposed by Me and My Muse: Tell Us What You’d Say — To Your Younger Self?

Reflection: 7th of February, 2024

While you were a toddler, you already knew the child mindset is the most beautiful because of its imagination, the innocent look at life, and the wonderful ability to see the beauty in the slightest mundane of life.

As you grew up, you wanted to keep this innocence as a treasure, and have been humiliated by people’s view of you as naïve.

I wish you knew at that time that you are an ENFJ whose “secret weapon is the purity of intent”.

Feeling as naïve as everybody seemed to say, you let yourself be convinced that their words and advice were better than your own reflections. When the time came to make choices, you naturally followed their advice, even if deep inside, you still felt doubt and unease.

But it was for your own good.

Was it?

What if it was because of their fear?

I wish you knew at that time that you are an ENFJ whose “secret weapon is the purity of intent”.

Fear of going down creative paths where financial security seems less guaranteed.

Fear of seeing you go abroad.

Their fears.

Fear of seeing you lead your life as you see fit, even if it means making mistakes? But we learn by making mistakes, don’t we?

Their fears.

You have always been afraid of making mistakes, at school or in life. Getting a bad mark sucks.

Is that so? Isn’t it an opportunity to see what failed and improve?

After all, it is only a mark. How important is it in life?

Of course, nobody takes pride in their failures in life. And yet, it is so instructive!

Today, I’m proud of you because you’ve definitely closed the door on fear of others. You’ve taken your courage in your hands, and you’re going for it.

There will be failures, but at least it will be your choice.

Life cracks or life experience? — Photo by author

Now, I hope this will help you do the same with your children: put aside your fears as a mother, and let them have the freedom to walk their own.

Never forget to listen with your attention entirely focused on the other. In this way, you will be able to set aside the fears that are yours and invite confidence.

And you, reader, what about your younger self?

Do you have something to write about you think would be welcomed here at The Diarist? Check out the submissions page — let’s see it! Follow The Diarist for some gripping diary entries, by your favourite Diarists.