I saw a 3-year old playing with a Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal and she looked so happy. I asked her why she was so happy, and she replied “I don’t know”. This sparked a moment of self-reflection: why did I feel so unfulfilled when she found joy in something so simple?
At the time, I didn’t give it much thought. But as the days passed, I began to realize that little girl knew something that many of us forget as we grow older: embracing what we already have and finding comfort in the things that make us feel good. Maybe we should pause more often, appreciate who we are, and cherish what we’ve been through.
As a rebellious teenager, I often dismissed advice from others, convinced I had life all figured out. I wanted to carve my own path and never followed the norm (my mother would definitely agree!). I thought that constantly seeking more than what I had would bring me happiness. But life always finds a way to humble us. My journey from school to uni, and now as a working woman, has taught me that true growth never ends. It comes from within — from staying curious and being open to learning from anyone and everyone, even a 3-year-old.
Those years were more than just moments—they were chapters of transformation. I learned to appreciate differing perspectives and to see each encounter, whether positive or negative, as an opportunity to grow. The more I learned, the more I realized how much there was left to discover, and how important gratitude is. That understanding sparked an endless thirst for knowledge and growth that still drives me today.
Throughout my life, I have faced moments of doubt and anxiety, especially when I was stepping into unfamiliar situations. My faith in God and trust in myself have been my guiding lights, making me braver with each challenge. Each success, no matter how small, built my confidence piece by piece. Now, as I look at where I am today, it all starts to make sense. I am so grateful for every twist and turn. It was not always easy, and it definitely wasn’t a straight path, but each step brought me closer to who I’m meant to be, and where I’m meant to go. I trust that my path is laid out by God, and even if I’m not exactly where I want to be yet, I know I am on my way. This is what I hope to share with other young women: trust the process. Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Even when things feel uncertain, every experience teaches you something valuable. Sometimes, happiness is closer than we think —just as it was for that little girl and her bear.
One quote that has always inspired me is: “If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.” The “room” doesn’t have to be a physical space — it can be the job you’re in, the friendships you nurture, the relationships you build, the books you read, or the gym you go to. Apply this insight to every part of your life. For the past two years, this little piece of wisdom has driven me to seek out people who challenge, inspire, and teach me. Don’t be afraid to push yourself, because the worst-case scenario is rarely as intimidating as it seems — it’s just an illusion in your head. You can do it, whatever “it” is. And even if you stumble, keep going. Trust me, you’ll get there. I was always afraid to start my graphic design career as a freelancer, but today I can tell you that is has been the most rewarding experience for me both in my professional and personal lives.
To every young woman reading this: remember, life is not a race. Don’t rush to some imaginary finish line—it does not exist. Enjoy every moment, truly savor the present, and do what makes you feel alive. Trust yourself, and know that each step—whether it’s a big win or a small misstep—is shaping you into becoming who you are meant to be. Most importantly, go after what you love. Whether it’s a dream, an idea, a passion, a friendship, a career, a decision, or a person — chase it, even if the whole world tells you otherwise. Take it from that 3-year-old: do whatever it takes, because if it makes sense to you, then that’s all that matters.
Maybe sometimes, you need to talk to a 3-year old so you can understand life again.
Author: Maya Jurdak, Visual Communicator & Designer
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