Now I haven’t done this for so long, but with a turn toward introspection due to this year, I am returning to this prompt.

In 2010, I wrote of clear idealism. In 2011, I wrote of ways to move on.

Future Self. Imagine yourself five years from now. What advice would you give your current self for the year ahead? (Bonus: Write a note to yourself 10 years ago. What would you tell your younger self?)

Dear Jenn of 2025,

Don’t forget about writing. Or at least, don’t forget about how creativity drives your inner core. There was this movie that was released on Disney+ Soul, which you probably forgot because it was forgettable, but there was this pivotal question in it—what is your spark? Obviously it’s not quite writing. But it’s the desire to connect with others through creation, because you want people to think differently. That is the goal and your way of doing that is through creation.

Remember all the times that you were moody and then you suddenly created? Those moments changed everything. I have been trying to find that quote that I heard in a TV show or movie. The one where creators must create or else they create chaos or destroy. I am one of those. You’re one of those. Your pent-up energy doesn’t get released in any other way. If you keep it trapped, then it builds up in pressure, stretching in bad decisions and surrounding yourselves with bad influences.

So remember, always create. To create wonder. To make sure that others don’t feel alone. To let go of your steam. So go ahead, create the stories. Create the videos whether it’s a movie, shorts, or tik tok like things. Create the podcast. Create the images. Create the food. Or whatever they do to entertain the future. Create the experiences.

Dear Jenn of 2010,

Chris is a rock and accepts you as you are. Don’t forget it.