Dear 10-year-old me,
Let me be the first to wish you a very happy birthday. Congratulations on making it to double-digits – can you believe you’re an entire decade? You’ve seen and heard a lot in your young life but what happens far later in the future is truly amazing. It’s only right I give you a little advice and help you prepare for the next chapter – I am you, after all.
Saving money is one of the most difficult things to do as a kid, but I know you pretty well – you have enough due diligence to pinch those pennies. Whereas your peers are perfectly content sinking their allowance into vapid purchases from the local outlet malls, purchases doomed to become an otherwise forgettable earmark of adolescence, you are different. You’ll use your money to travel and become a better person because of it.
You may not realize it yet but you were born to travel. From the sandy beaches of Puerto Rico, misty mountains of Costa Rica, cobbled stone streets of Paris and vibrant architecture in Spain, your life will completely change. Take my word – you’ve got to prepare yourself financially for what’s ahead.
One of the most important steps you’ll ever take in your adult life will be setting up an ISA, which will help you make the most of your savings. Your 2 year fixed rate ISA will ensure you’re able to follow your passion and see the world. After all, 1.50% tax free/AER (fixed) interest is pretty awesome.
I know, I know – this is all pretty foreign to you right now and that’s okay. This will all make sense much later down the road. For now you should just focus on spending responsibly, I mean … do you really need the latest iPhone?
Stick to your guns, kid. Sacrifice a little shuteye to maintain your paper route. Squeeze some more citrus for your lemonade stand. Keep knocking on neighbor’s doors advertising your unparalleled lawn mowing services. Every dollar you earn will make you richer than you ever imagined – travel will truly open your world.
I’ll catch up with you in a couple decades, younger self. For now I’ve got a plane to catch alongside the most important woman you’ll ever meet – hint: she’s the pretty girl that strikes up a conversation with you inside a coffee shop in San Antonio.
