If you were 18 again, what would you do, or tell yourself?

Being 18 was one of the best times of my life. It was the time my life in college began at the University of the Philippines. It’s the period most of us consider our carefree days, when our only concerns were our studies, school projects, and crushes. Looking back now, if you knew what you know now, would you still do what you did then? If you saw your 18-year-old self walk through the door, what would you tell him/her?

Paul Henson, TV executive producer, journalist, ABS-CBN News

“Don’t pop that zit! Get a job at Harpo, the boss will have her own network someday. Or find a job that’s near the beach. Tap into the possibilities of the Internet ahead of everybody else. It’s a goldmine…if you’re first, fast and creative. Be true to yourself. Quit pleasing others. It’s okay to be vulnerable. The joy will outweigh the pain. People come and go, but they all have lessons to share and beautiful memories to impart. Life is short; don’t delay gratification. Travel — it really is the best teacher. Don’t worry. It will all turn out just fine.”

Anthony Pangilinan, consultant, Change Management

“Wow! Thank God you’re going to look much better in the future. If you think you’ve got it made, you’re in for a major, major surprise (wait for a pageant in 2010 for explanation). Can’t make you absorb this now but, trust me, your problems now won’t kill you so keep your feet on the ground. And the things you value now? Well, the ’80s songs will last forever but your latest pager, ilang araw lang ‘yan.”

Rory B. Quintos, director

“You have such a great life ahead of you. Go out into the world and do what you have to do. Do not be afraid or be discouraged by the trials and pains that will come your way. Be brave. When you fall, get up and keep going. Keep the faith! Know that you are always protected and loved by the one above. Stay with His purpose. You have such a wonderful life ahead of you. Blessings will pour down on you. Enjoy your life to the max. Now go... live and love to the fullest. I’m soooo happy for you!”

Lourd de Veyra, musician, poet, journalist,  broadcast  personality

“For Chrissakes — go eat something and get a haircut!”

Jason Tan, director

I would most probably invite myself to a cup of coffee. I remember I didn’t enjoy coffee when I was 18 though, but I’d tell my younger self that I would be dependent on it in a few years. Then I would tell him who to watch out for, those troublesome people that I have encountered so that I’d save myself the time from dealing with them. And I would give myself a winning Lotto combination to boot. Yeah!

Razel “Pong” Niu, associate makeup artist, MAC Cosmetics

This is a tough one. I would tell my 18-year-old self to honor, obey, and listen to my parents. Be humble and always put God first. Experience is a good teacher but the wisdom of our parents makes life easier if obeyed and followed.

Martin Bautista,  fashion designer

I’d say, “Oh my God, you’re so thin! Stay away from the carbs!”

Pia de Leon, businesswoman

If I saw my 18-year-old self walk through the door, I would tell her these things: “Do not underestimate the love and support of your family. Spend more time with your grandfather. Live with a passion and without regret. Live on the 4th Arrondissement in Le Marais, Paris, and master French and Spanish. Watch a Michael Jackson concert. Keep an eye on Mama’s vintage clothes and accessories. Do not rely on others to make you happy. Lather up with Palmer’s cocoa butter generously to prevent stretch marks. Do not introduce your taste buds to choriburger.

Secretary Cesar V. Purisima, Department of Finance

Wow! That’s an interesting question. I graduated from college with a degree in accounting and finance when I was 18 and immediately prepared for the CPA examinations so I could pursue my career in public accounting and it’s been work, work since then. Had I known what I have since learned in life, I would advise myself to have a more balanced life — invest more in my health, pursue my MBA a few years later than I did, learn the Chinese language, and maybe work and spend more time in China and perhaps, get married younger than I did (of course, to the same lady, my wife whom I love dearly).