Unapologetically Amber: Living Life, Unfiltered

Things I Wish I Knew Five Years Ago: Lessons from Growth, Faith, and Self-Discovery

Do You Ever Wish You Could Go Back in Time?

Sometimes I do.

Other times, I think going back might disrupt the karmic path I’m on. The truth is, I’ve learned so much over the last five years that it’s hard not to reflect and say, “Wow, I wish I had known that back then.”

But maybe that’s the point — maybe we’re meant to discover things exactly when we need to.

Still, if I could write a letter to the “me” from five years ago, here’s what I’d say:

1. Moving to Another State Will Be Okay

You’re going to be fine. Actually, better than fine.

You’ll make friends. You’ll build community. Your kids will flourish in this new environment, experiencing things you never could’ve imagined for them back home.

Most importantly, you and your husband will grow stronger. Without nearby family to lean on, you’ll learn to lean on each other — and that bond will deepen. What felt scary at first will become one of your proudest milestones.


2. Self-Help Books Aren’t for the Weak

I wish I had known this sooner.

Self-help books are for the brave. For the curious. For those seeking clarity, growth, healing, and purpose. I’ve come to love the self-reflection these books inspire. I’ve grown more aware of how I respond to challenges, and I’m more intentional with my energy.

These books have helped me tune into my inner world in a way I never expected. They’ve shown me that self-improvement isn’t selfish — it’s sacred.


3. Trying New Things Opens New Doors

I once thought things like book festivals were boring.

Spoiler: they’re not.

Attending one changed my perspective. Listening to authors speak, exploring ideas I didn’t fully understand, even just being around people who love to learn — it was refreshing and unexpectedly fun.

Trying new things, even the ones that make you feel a little unsure, can lead to some of life’s richest experiences.


Final Thoughts

Would I really go back in time if I could? Maybe. But probably not.

Because I’m proud of who I’ve become and what I’ve learned along the way. And maybe the real wisdom is this: trust the timing of your life.

If you’re in the middle of a big move, considering a leap, or just curious about personal growth, let this be your reminder — you’re going to be okay.

In fact, you might just be better than okay. You might be right on time.

One response to “Things I Wish I Knew Five Years Ago: Lessons from Growth, Faith, and Self-Discovery”

  1. Beth Young Avatar
    Beth Young

    I hope you never look back at what might have been. You have grown and felt things you could have never felt with staying close to daddy and I or even Helen and Bill. You and Jason have grown stronger and those tow grandsons have grown into amazing young men. No one could ask for a better path than you have taken. Heart is full. . A happy mama and grandma!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *