Top 10: If you could talk to your 5-year-old self, what advice would you give them?
With some foresight and time travel, readers share what they would tell their younger selves about the past, present and future
If you could go back in time, what would you tell your five-year-old self? Photo: ShutterstockThis week’s question: What type of video game would you design for your grandmother, and why? To take part, drop us a line via this form by 12pm on Wednesday, April 16.
Zoe Suet Tam-hau, 13, Pope Paul VI College: I would give my five-year-old self a long hug and tell her to cherish childhood moments. I would also tell her not to care too much about others’ negativity – especially things they say that make her feel suicidal. I would do my best to protect her from toxic family members and friends, and protect her from mental health struggles, including depression and anxiety. “Don’t worry, little me, you’re going to be all right. When you feel overwhelmed, remember that your future self is watching over you.”
If you have suicidal thoughts or know someone who is experiencing them, help is available. In Hong Kong, you can dial 18111 for the government-run Mental Health Support Hotline. You can also call 2896 0000 for The Samaritans or 2382 0000 for Suicide Prevention Services. For a list of other nations’ helplines, see this page.
James Chen, 11, St Francis of Assisi’s College: As our parents often remind us, it’s important to cherish the time you have. You are still young and have plenty of opportunities to develop hobbies and make friends. Unfortunately, our grandfather will pass away in a year, so don’t miss out on any chance to spend time with him. While studying hard is essential, remember not to overwhelm yourself with stress. Focus on growing up healthy and in good spirits, and strive to fill your childhood with wonderful memories. You’ll find that this world is full of kindness.
Why are Hong Kong teens ‘lying flat’? For some, it’s ‘not as stressful’
Heyden Luo Chi-dung, 16, Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College: Cherish time spent with friends, as opportunities to gather are rare and happen “once in a blue moon”. With everyone busy with studies, job searches or just navigating life’s uncertainties, it’s essential to value these moments together. Prioritising friendships is important for building lasting connections.
Jeff Ho, 15, STFA Seaward Woo College: All right, champ, I’ll keep this brief, but please pay attention to everything I say. Study hard enough to achieve good grades for a brighter future in secondary school. Don’t be goofy; others might not appreciate it and could bully you. Trust me, I know – I am your future self. Respect your teachers; disrespecting them can lead to serious consequences, so keep this in mind. Value every moment spent with older family members. You will regret it if you don’t. That’s all, champ. Good luck!
Cheney Zhao, 16, Tin Shui Wai Government Secondary School: Hey there! I can’t help but feel regret and miss you more than ever. Back then, you spent so much time watching TV. You didn’t have a proper farewell with your friends, nor were you prepared for your new life in primary school. I have not experienced such a pure friendship as the one I had when I was five. Ask your mum to collect your friends’ phone numbers so we can stay in touch now. And why didn’t you start studying English earlier? If you had, I could now speak and write it fluently. Be proactive with your friends, and remember to work hard.
Chrissy Chen Lok-yi, 16, Leung Shek Chee College: When I was five years old, I watched some videos on YouTube about a hi-tech city in 2025. In this city, cars would fly in the sky, cyborgs would walk on the streets and everyone would have their own robot, just like in science-fiction films. I felt foolish for believing it, so I would tell my five-year-old self it was not true.
Burton Sze, 16, Hong Kong Tang King Po College: “Work hard and read more Chinese books.” Mastering Chinese as a language requires continuous exposure for improvement. The subject is often called “the paper of death” in public exams. To succeed, it is essential to develop a comprehensive understanding from childhood.
Matilda Wong Tsz-nok, 13, STFA Tam Pak Yu College: I would suggest she start studying earlier because cramming is not an effective way to learn. I would also advise her to complete more past papers for practice. This way, she could achieve higher marks in primary school.
Top 10: The blind box toys readers would create
Poon Chiu-yu, 15, TWGHs Li Ka Shing College: “Enjoy the friendships you have in Primary Five.” I still keep in contact with a friend from primary school. We sometimes hang out, and our relationship gets stronger every year. Therefore, I want to remind myself to cherish this friendship.
Tso Hei-an, 14, Christian Alliance SC Chan Memorial College: I would tell her not to give up on her dreams and to stay positive. I would also advise her to continue learning new things.