Dear Me, Ten Years On,
It’s October 26, 2023, and I’m sitting here trying to capture the essence of who I am right now, hoping you’ll look back with a mixture of nostalgia and maybe a little pride. The world outside feels a bit chaotic, but inside, there’s a current of focused ambition. I’m currently working as a junior analyst at Sterling Financial Group, a role I secured after a grueling internship at the end of my finance degree. The days are long, often filled with spreadsheets and market reports, but there’s a thrill in deciphering trends and making sense of financial data. I hope you’re still finding that intellectual spark, wherever your career has taken you.
My biggest professional goal right now is to climb the ladder at Sterling, or at least gain enough experience to transition into a more specialized role, perhaps in sustainable investing. I’m fascinated by how financial markets can be a force for good, and I’m actively seeking out projects that align with that vision. I’ve started attending industry webinars on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing and even volunteered to help our team research potential green bond opportunities. Did this passion stick? Did you manage to make a tangible impact in that area? I’m also trying to cultivate a reputation for being reliable and insightful, the kind of colleague people trust with important tasks. I’m learning that it’s not just about what you know, but how you communicate it and build relationships. Remember the networking events I used to dread? I hope you’ve become more comfortable and found genuine connections there.
On a personal level, I’m trying to be more intentional about my well-being. The hustle culture can be draining, and I’m realizing the importance of balance. I’ve started a morning routine: 15 minutes of meditation, followed by a quick jog around the park near my apartment. It helps clear my head before diving into emails. I’ve also made a conscious effort to nurture my friendships, scheduling regular calls and meetups, even when work feels overwhelming. These connections are my anchor. I hope you haven’t let them drift away. Are Sarah and I still having our weekly board game nights? Is Mark still the first person you call with good news? These relationships are more valuable than any stock option.
I’m also working on my patience and my ability to handle setbacks. This past year, I was passed over for a promotion I felt I deserved. It stung, but I tried to learn from the feedback I received, focusing on developing my presentation skills and taking more initiative in team meetings. It taught me resilience, a lesson I hope you carry forward. Life rarely goes according to a perfectly laid-out plan. I’m sure you’ve faced far bigger challenges than a missed promotion. My hope is that you faced them with grace, learned from them, and emerged stronger.
Looking ahead, I envision a life where work is fulfilling but doesn’t consume me. I hope you've found that sweet spot. Perhaps you’re leading a team, mentoring younger analysts, or even running your own consultancy focused on ethical finance. Whatever it is, I hope it brings you genuine satisfaction and a sense of purpose. I also hope you’ve traveled. That trip to Kyoto I keep dreaming about – did it happen? Have you seen the Northern Lights? Don’t let work be the only story of your life.
Finally, remember the person writing this. Remember the ambition, the anxieties, the hopes, and the simple joys. Be kind to yourself. Celebrate your successes, learn from your failures, and never stop growing. I’m rooting for you.
Warmly,
Your Younger Self