There is a moment in life when we look back and think about the struggles we faced in our younger years. Maybe it was the time when we felt lost, unheard, or uncertain about the future. In those moments, we longed for guidance, support, and a voice that reassured us everything would be okay. Now, as adults, we have the opportunity not just to be that person for someone else, but also for ourselves.

Now, as I celebrate six years in the UK, I reflect on how far I’ve come. The challenges, the lessons, the victories; every step has shaped me. The phrase “Be who you needed when you were younger” is not just a saying, it’s a mission. It’s an invitation to reflect, to nurture, and to heal. It reminds us to embody the kindness, wisdom, and encouragement we once wished for, not only outwardly, but inwardly as well. It’s about recognising how far we’ve come and offering ourselves the grace we deserved all along. Growth is not just about what we achieve, but also how we learn to care for ourselves and others along the way.

At the heart of this idea lies the Golden Rule: “Treat others and the planet as we’d wish to be treated.”. I think back to the times I felt lost, when just a few words of encouragement could’ve made all the difference. Imagine if, during the most vulnerable moments, someone had shown you the kindness and understanding you craved. How different would things have felt? By leading with empathy, we create a ripple effect, lifting others as we rise.

This doesn’t mean we must have all the answers. Sometimes, being present, listening, and offering a safe space is enough. The way we speak to ourselves, the forgiveness we offer for past mistakes, and the space we create for growth are all reflections of self-kindness. Being the person you needed isn’t just helping others; it’s also about honouring your own journey. Every time I extend support and kindness; I heal a part of my younger self. I remind that version of me, the one who was scared and uncertain, that she was always capable. By offering the encouragement I once longed for, I turn my struggles into something meaningful.

So, ask yourself: Who did you need when you were younger? Was it a patient listener, a supportive mentor, or someone who simply believed in you? Be that person now. Show up, extend kindness, and create the world you once wished for. Because in the end, the legacy we leave isn’t just built on achievements alone, but on the hearts we touch along the way.