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Biggest tip you would give to yourself 5 years ago?
What piece of advice would you give yourself 5 years ago? Is there a decision or obstacle you could avoid if known about beforehand? Could others learn off of your experiences.
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Kelly’s Answer
Hi Tristan,
If I could give myself advice from five years ago, it would be this: Save more than you think you need and protect your energy.
Early in your career (especially in creative fields), income can fluctuate. I would tell myself to build a stronger financial cushion sooner. Even small, consistent savings create freedom; freedom to say no to the wrong project, freedom to take a creative risk, freedom to breathe when things are slow.
The second piece of advice is about energy. Be mindful of who and what you give your time to. Some opportunities look exciting but drain you. Some collaborations sound impressive but aren’t healthy. Not every room you’re invited into is one you need to stay in.
Learn to recognize:
People who uplift and challenge you in good ways. Projects that align with your values. Situations that quietly exhaust you.
Five years ago, I would have benefited from setting stronger boundaries and being more selective. Sustainable success isn’t about saying yes to everything. It’s about saying yes to the right things.
If others can learn from my experience: Build your skills. Build your savings, and build your circle carefully.
Your talent matters, but your stability and well-being matter just as much.
If I could give myself advice from five years ago, it would be this: Save more than you think you need and protect your energy.
Early in your career (especially in creative fields), income can fluctuate. I would tell myself to build a stronger financial cushion sooner. Even small, consistent savings create freedom; freedom to say no to the wrong project, freedom to take a creative risk, freedom to breathe when things are slow.
The second piece of advice is about energy. Be mindful of who and what you give your time to. Some opportunities look exciting but drain you. Some collaborations sound impressive but aren’t healthy. Not every room you’re invited into is one you need to stay in.
Learn to recognize:
People who uplift and challenge you in good ways. Projects that align with your values. Situations that quietly exhaust you.
Five years ago, I would have benefited from setting stronger boundaries and being more selective. Sustainable success isn’t about saying yes to everything. It’s about saying yes to the right things.
If others can learn from my experience: Build your skills. Build your savings, and build your circle carefully.
Your talent matters, but your stability and well-being matter just as much.
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
If I could give myself advice from five years ago, I would say not to worry so much about having everything planned out. It's easy to think you need a perfect future plan, but most people figure things out as they go. Great opportunities often come from trying new things, making mistakes, and finding what you enjoy.
I would also tell myself not to fear starting something new, even if I'm not good at it right away. Skills take time to develop, and everyone begins somewhere. Waiting until you feel completely ready can actually hold you back.
This is something many people can learn from. It's okay to change paths, ask for help, and take your time to discover what works for you. Growth often comes from experience, not from having everything perfectly planned from the start.
I would also tell myself not to fear starting something new, even if I'm not good at it right away. Skills take time to develop, and everyone begins somewhere. Waiting until you feel completely ready can actually hold you back.
This is something many people can learn from. It's okay to change paths, ask for help, and take your time to discover what works for you. Growth often comes from experience, not from having everything perfectly planned from the start.
Cherilyn Garner
Medical Office Practice Manager; Certified Medical Assistant (
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Cherilyn’s Answer
If I could give myself advice from five years ago, I’d tell myself to believe more in my own potential and not let someone else’s opinion limit me. Back then, I didn’t pursue further education because a manager told me that “management can’t be taught — you’re either born with it or you’re not.” I wish I hadn’t taken his word for it, because that wasn’t true at all. I later learned there are plenty of management and leadership programs, and I’m actually working on my master’s in leadership now. The tough part is that my company offered a program to help employees go to school for free a couple of years ago — and I missed out because I didn’t explore my options sooner. So my biggest advice is this: don’t let someone else decide what you’re capable of. Look into things for yourself, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to invest in your future.