What would you tell your younger self? Would you like to go back in time to give yourself some advice? Would you make different choices? Would you want to change the course of your life?

This month, I was challenged as a member of the Netflix Canada #StreamTeam to write a letter to a younger version of me. Admittedly, it has taken me a while to draft this letter but, here goes…

Dear Jody,

First of all, relax. Everything is going to be all right! Stop worrying and enjoy where you are at right now. Trust me, there will be much more worrying to be done when you are older.

You have been blessed with great parents and family who have made sure that you know right from wrong and are equipped to make good choices in your life.

You have been surrounded by friends and mentors who want to see you succeed. Listen to them… they want the best for you.

Take time to care for your mind, your body and your soul. I mean it! This is important.

Get lots of sleep, eat better and exercise more. Please!

Always remember that this too shall pass and happy times are ahead.

Tell people who you care about that you love them. Tell them a lot because you never know when those people won’t be there to hear it.

You will meet a wonderful man soon. Trust your heart and don’t let him go. You and he will have two beautiful children and a wacko dog.

You will acquire a taste for wine. And like fine wine, you’ll get better with age. Life will be good. Go for it!

Love an older (and definitely better) version of Jody

Netflix hosts a wide variety of series that capture the vibrancy of modern womanhood, whether it’s the solidarity expressed by the diverse inmates on Orange Is the New Black, the inspired efforts of a tenacious young Queen in The Crown (I love this series), the emotional and physical strength of Jessica Jones or the outspoken, unfiltered wit of Chelsea Handler as she relates to women across multiple generations. These characters represent diverse and complex backgrounds that reflect the idea of “empowerment” in numerous ways.

In honour of the newest leading female character, Queen Elizabeth II, a few leading women of Netflix originals have drafted notes to their younger selves – and everyone everywhere – highlighting some of the universal truths, challenges and wisdom that transcend place and time, to which modern women everywhere can relate.

Disclosure: I am part of the Netflix Canada #StreamTeam. All opinions and views expressed are my own. I choose to binge watch and when I binge watch, I choose Netflix!