2025 just arrived. 🤯

Talk of New Year resolutions is cheap without action.

But we know that the best action is driven by insight, and insight can come from many sources.

Writing a letter to your teenage self is one of the most profound sources of actionable insight, and entrepreneurs who receive executive coaching sometimes use it.

Here’s why?

• Perspective on Growth: Writing to your teenage self helps you recognise how far you've come, clarifies personal growth, and highlights lessons that shaped your current values and mindset.

• Rediscovering Passion and Purpose: It allows you to revisit youthful aspirations and dreams, potentially reigniting passions or identifying where you may have strayed from your original purpose.

• Identifying Patterns and Obstacles: Reflecting on past struggles and victories can reveal recurring challenges and how you've overcome them, empowering you with actionable strategies for the present.

• Fostering Self-Compassion: The act encourages empathy toward your younger self, helping you forgive past mistakes and use them as building blocks for more intentional decision-making today.

I’ve set you some actionable ‘homework’ at the end of this newsletter.

In the meantime, here’s some context to my letter and the actual letter to my 16-year-old self.

Context for My Letter

1984 was a pivotal year for me.
Picture this: a long-haired teenager staring at an AC/DC poster, clueless about the future after receiving a dismal school report. Forty years later, life took me from dreaming of rock stardom to touring America with rock bands and launching Xbox.

Subject: A Letter to My 16-Year-Old Self: Life's Greatest Hits Album

Dear Harvey,

Put down that cigarette for a minute and listen up. I know you think you've got it all figured out, but trust me, you haven't. And that's perfectly fine. Here's what four decades of sometimes painful experience have taught me...

First off, that school report? The one where they said you "haven't taken advantage of the opportunities available"? Well, they were right - but for all the wrong reasons. You see, traditional education isn't the only path to success. Your real education is about to begin, and it won't happen in a classroom.

You'll learn that success isn't about following someone else's rulebook. It's about creating your own. That attitude that's getting you into trouble at school? Channel it properly, and it becomes determination. That ability to talk your way out of detention? That's future negotiation skills in the making.

Remember when Mr. Clough used to whack your fingers with that ruler in music class? You'll laugh about it later because music will become your gateway to everything else. Not as a rock star (sorry to burst that bubble), but as someone who understands how to make things happen behind the scenes.

Here's what I really want you to know:

1. Your greatest strength isn't what you think it is

It's not your ability to play guitar (thank goodness) but your knack for making things happen. You'll become known as someone who gets shit done. Embrace that.

2. That chip on your shoulder? Use it

Being bullied for being different has made you angry. Good. Use that energy to prove everyone wrong. But remember - success is the best revenge.

3. Don't be afraid to fail spectacularly

You're going to mess up. Spectacularly. Multiple times. You'll get fired (once), manage a band that doesn't make it, and make some truly questionable career moves. Each failure is setting you up for something better.

4. Your real talent is connecting dots

While everyone else tries to be a rock star, you'll learn to see the bigger picture. That's your superpower. You'll use it to create opportunities where others see dead ends.

5. Trust your gut, but verify with data

That instinct you have for spotting opportunities? It's good, but it'll become great when you learn to back it up with facts and figures.

6. People matter more than plans

Those connections you're about to make in the music industry? Nurture them. Some of your best opportunities will come from people you least expect.

7. Learn to say no

You're going to say yes to everything for years. It's exhausting. Learn to say no sooner rather than later. Not every opportunity is the right opportunity.

8. Keep pushing boundaries

That rebellious streak? Please don't lose it entirely. Just learn to channel it more productively. The corporate world needs more people who question the status quo.

9. Family isn't just background noise

Right now, they're driving you mad. But they're your backbone. Especially Mum and Dad - they'll support you even when they think you're making massive mistakes (and sometimes you will be).

10. Your identity is your strength

Stop trying to hide your religion. It's part of who you are; one day, you'll be proud to stand up and be counted. Those bullies? They've already peaked.

Most importantly, remember this: that constant feeling that you don't quite fit in? It's your greatest asset. You're not meant to fit in - you're meant to stand out.

Oh, and one more thing - invest in Apple and Microsoft as soon as you can. Trust me on this one.

Keep rockin',

Your future self

P.S. That long hair? Maybe reconsider the perm in '87. Some things are better left in the idea stage.

The three most important takeaways:

1. Be Authentic

Your difference is your strength. Stop trying to be what others expect, and start being who you are.

2. Embrace The Journey

The path ahead isn't linear. Every seeming detour is actually part of the main road.

3. Keep Learning

Your real education starts when you leave school. Never stop being curious, never stop asking questions, and never stop pushing for better.

Now it’s your turn to write to your 16-year-old self.

Hit reply to this newsletter and tell me what you learned (it will find my inbox).

Don’t React To Your Career - Create It! Here’s How…

Your career isn’t an accident; it’s your most valuable product.

Yet so many product marketers stumble into the role without a clear roadmap. The result?

• Struggling to break into PMM.

• Feeling promotions are out of reach.

• Navigating layoffs or career changes with uncertainty.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

In February 2025, I’m launching an exclusive Career Accelerator cohort designed for product marketers ready to build the careers they’ve always dreamed of—whether they’re searching, stuck, or seeking a pivot.

Only 6 spots are left (in this beta cohort, where you'll join a six-week journey with weekly calls, actionable homework, and collaborative engagement.

If you’re ready to take the next step, visit the new website below, complete the no-commitment application, and I’ll send you a link to book your complimentary 20-minute career strategy session with me.

Don’t miss the chance to design the career you deserve. 🙌