circa 1997
This is a television screen shot of me in 1997. I was fresh out of college, still very green and– judging by the width of my permagrin–totally thrilled. Truth? I was scared out of my mind. This image was captured as the anchors were saying, “Angie Mizzell joins us live,” for the very first time. It was the day Star Wars was re-released, and I was the lead story.
My friend, TV personality and expert in all things weather, Reg Taylor, tagged this image of me on Facebook yesterday, and it made me think about all the things I want to say to this young woman. First, I would hug her and tell her to relax. And then, I’d take her aside (after the live shot, of course), order her the largest diet Coke in the house and tell her this:
- One day, you will stop buying your suits in the junior department of Dillards. I promise.
- When you’re 28, and you get the urge to color your own hair, don’t do it.
- Don’t run from the sadness in your heart. Feeling the pain is the only way through it.
- This career is not the end of the road for you. When you feel your priorities shift and you wonder if you should take your life in a new direction, trust that voice.
- Your heart, your character and your gifts and talents define you. Not your job title.
- Work hard, but you don’t have to try so hard. There’s a difference.
- Stay committed to the journey, and you’ll find your place in this world.
- I believe in you.
I’m grateful that life eventually taught me these things, even if I didn’t know it– or believe it–then. Did any of this advice to my younger self resonate with you? What do you know now, that you didn’t know when you were 22?
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I’d tell my 22 year old self to be more comfortable in her own skin, to acknowledge her gifts, and to be more persistent.
That has definitely come with age, for me. Also learning that age is relative.
I would tell my 22-year-old self that she doesn’t know everything.
And now, you do!
I would tell my 22 year old self that no matter what happens you will turn out OK! Any perceived failure will be a building block to success in life! And yes, you will live past 30!
TheFatGuy
You are a wonderful testament to all of those things.
I wrote a letter to my 7 year old self last night to publish next Thursday. No joke. I love this post, definitely makes me smile. And as for my 22 year old self? I would definitely tell her to calm down and that she will find her new identity after dancing ends.
I can’t wait to read that! Wait, dancing ends? Dancing should never end, IMHO.
Dear Andra: DO NOT get married at 22 to a dude you’ve only known six weeks. It will be a disaster. Believe me, and do not make me relive it here in this comment. Love, Andra
And, looking at this photo, I think you look younger now than you did at 22.
Both points you’ve made here prove we get better with age. Fine wine, ladies. Fine wine.
I do see a passion, and drive, in your photo, Angie. I think that’s what is important to bring along on our journey through life. I would tell my 22 year old self that she knows more than she thinks she does, in her heart. To trust herself.
That’s so true… if I ever have a daughter, I’ll be sure to tell her that. It’s good advice for all of us.
I would tell my 22 year old self that plans are the things you make to guide your journey, not un-bendable, inflexible rules and that when the wind pushes your boat in a new direction, go!
Between 22 and 24 I learned some of this advice, especially the plan part…but still keep having to relearn it for more profound, long-lasting results (kinda like the difference btw at-home hair coloring and salon color.)
Amen! And blonde in box just isn’t the same.
OMG, you were adorable! I mean, you still are.
The comment about the Jr. dept. made me laugh because I had that epiphany just a couple years ago. Hello?! I’m in my 30′s! I don’t need to be browsing through Hello Kitty T-shirts and leggings. I really like this line: “Work hard, but you don’t have to try so hard. “
Abby, your comment reminds me of a post I read on the Cafe Mom blog. I actually worked with the author of this post in TV… back when this screen shot was taken. Anyway, it’s about the awkward 30s re: fashion
http://thestir.cafemom.com/beauty_style/114532/are_your_30s_causing_an
Wow! You have really got me thinking with this post, Angie. In fact, you’ve inspired a post of my own on this. There’s too much good (and sad in a way) stuff here.
Myself at 22? I was working my way through college with 2 jobs and 2 kids. Sounds worse than it was. I had a wonderful husband and supportive family. Best of all, it was during this time that my rock solid work ethic was being cemented for life.
xo
You’re right… the good stuff is usually bittersweet. Can’t wait to read your post!
Really nice post, my 22 year old self thought he was way too wise for his age, what a dummy! I should have told him not to marry at 22 and live a little life first. Life works itself out eventually and the perspective of age seems to smooth out the rough spots. Love the fine wine comparison, hopefully it applies to the guys as well.
It definitely applies to men!
Sounds like that 22 year-old’s inner voice has taught her alot and carried her well. A lot of personal truths spoken here and I so admire you! And, I’ve always believed in you!
Mom, I know that’s true. You believed in me first.
Oh what a great post, Angie!. What would I tell my 22 year old self? Don’t be afraid to take a chance – grab life by the tail and swing with it!
Seems like we’re both learning it’s never too late!
LOVE this! There are a few mistakes I might steer my 22 year old self around, but ultimately I like the road all my younger selves chose for me. And really, at that age I wonder if anyone could have told me ANYthing.
Right on, Jodi. No regrets!
Angie, I love, love, love this one, and love you too! What a beautiful, strong, intelligent, and of course talented woman you are! For all of us women, the old saying……”You’ve come a long way baby!” really does apply. And that is obvious for you in this blog. Hope to see you and your mom soon.
Awesome pic! (And post.) I like the “work hard but don’t try so hard” one particularly. I’m only recently discovering…and forgetting…and (re)discovering…and – etc – that one.
a) I’m amazed that you haven’t aged a bit…your face looks exactly the same!
b) I would tell my 22 year old self that your work/career doesn’t define who you are…it’s what you do for a living. And not to take things so seriously, enjoy the success, live in the moment, and know that there will be a time when these things won’t be so important to you anymore.
I love this post, Angie.