An open letter to my young self and impressionable sisters.

As I sit and write this to my 18 year old self, I hope it touches someone else who may be in the same predicament.

I want to reassure you that everything will fall into place. You will grow into your looks, you will feel genuine comfort in your own skin and there will be days you will be full of vibrancy unimaginable to you now.

Own your body, don’t follow current trends as it isn’t for everyone, instead be brave and dare to stand out from the norm. Find what style works for you.

It is ok to have low days, that will occur from time to time…It’s important not to let these moments pass without acknowledging them but use them to sort out your internal thoughts, meditate, exercise and visualise.

It is moments like those that create an opportunity to draw from past experience and learn the lessons life is teaching you.

When entering the place of work/higher education, everything will be new to you, some colleagues/students you will be lucky to have as life long friends and some will only be known to you at work/higher education. That is perfectly ok, you are not there to build friendships but a career, and that is an individual journey so be diligent in your work and be accountable in whatever profession you choose as the powers that be are guaranteed to be taking notice of your hard work.

Men will come and go and there will never be a shortage of them, it is important to know your self worth. Don’t be fooled by those who compliment you and encourage you to forget your morals and ideals as they are only interested in what they can get from you.

Listen to your heart and follow your dreams, it is never too early to save. Rainy days will be plenty and always come when least expected. Be self sufficient and cut your cloth according to your size.

Friends will be plenty too especially at your age, beware of those that are heading nowhere as they will not encourage you to fulfil your destiny instead they will encourage you to fall into their bad company.

Last of all respect your elders and treasure their company, don’t forget they were once your age and have led their lives so have experiences to share with you that will help you along the way.

I wish I had someone to tell me these things when I was 18 years old, it certainly would have encouraged me.

Sincerely,

Funke Adeleke. Singer, Best Black British Artiste 2015.