When I was younger, I always wanted to be right.

Good morning and happy Friday, my friends!

When I was younger, I always wanted to be right. I would defend my point, speak quickly, and honestly wasn’t always mindful of how my words came across to other people. I didn’t realize at the time that even when your intentions are good, the way you say something can either build connection or create hurt.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that not every disagreement needs to become a battle to win. Sometimes peace matters more than proving a point. Sometimes listening matters more than responding. I’m still a work in progress because I naturally hate making mistakes and still have that inner drive to “get it right,” but I’ve also learned that growth often comes through those uncomfortable moments where we realize we could have handled something better.

While those moments aren’t always easy, I’m thankful for them because they continue to shape me. They remind me to slow down, lead with grace, and be more mindful of how I speak to others.

Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

There is so much strength in kindness, humility, and self-awareness. People may forget the details of a conversation, but they will remember how you made them feel.

What is something life has taught you about communication, grace, or choosing peace over being right? I’d love to hear your thoughts this morning. ❤️

:

5/8 Edited to

... Read moreReflecting on my own experiences, I find that the challenge of choosing kindness over being right is one many of us face regularly. Early in life, it’s common to focus on winning arguments or proving a point, but as I matured, I realized the emotional toll it takes on relationships. In one memorable situation at work, I found myself eager to correct a colleague, certain I was right, but the way I approached the conversation created more tension than resolution. After reflecting, I came to appreciate the wisdom in the phrase, “Choose being kind over being right, and you will be right every time,” a truth echoed in the saying from the image, "PEACE.WHISPERER." Learning to slow down and actively listen can transform disagreements into opportunities for growth and deeper understanding. Proverbs 15:1 beautifully summarizes this: "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." I’ve found that pausing before speaking, considering the feelings hidden behind words, and leading with humility often leads to peaceful outcomes that strengthen relationships. Of course, this is an ongoing process. I’m still a work in progress, striving to replace the urge to always be right with a mindset focused on empathy and connection. These moments of self-awareness and grace cultivate an environment where conversations don’t have to be battles to win but can become bridges to understanding. Over time, these small shifts in communication style have positively impacted my friendships, family interactions, and professional collaborations. Ultimately, how we say things matters just as much as what we say. The kindness embedded in our tone can leave lasting impressions, far beyond the details of the conversation. Sharing this journey and embracing these lessons encourages others to reflect on their own communication patterns and the power of choosing peace.

Related posts

Became who I always wanted to be ✨🧚🏻‍♀️✨
When I was younger I always wanted to do my makeup all cool and have dyed hair. I’m all grown up now and living the life I always knew i would ☺️💖 - - - - - - - - - - ————————————————— #thowback #thenandnow #thenvsnow #makeup #lovemyself
★⋆𝕰𝖑𝖎𝖟𝖆𝖇𝖊𝖙𝖍⋆★

★⋆𝕰𝖑𝖎𝖟𝖆𝖇𝖊𝖙𝖍⋆★

1 like

A young girl with dark eye makeup and brown hair stands by a silver car, with a banner asking 'Was I COOLER WHEN I Was YouNGER?' and colorful doodles, dated 2009/10/17.
A young girl with reddish hair, dark eye makeup, makes a peace sign and sticks out her tongue while holding a red electric guitar in a room with posters, dated 2009/05/24.
Two young girls, one with dark hair and a tongue piercing, the other with brown hair, both stick out their tongues in a close-up shot, dated 2009/10/17.
Was I “Cooler” When I Was Younger?
🔥 Honestly… yes! But why? 🔥 I cared a lot less about what people thought of me. 🔥 I didn’t feel the need to get the “perfect” picture. 🔥 I expressed myself how I wanted. 🔥 I didn’t feel any shame for liking what I liked. It made me more creative and happier. 🔥 I definitely look u
Em

Em

2070 likes

A close-up of two dry brushes, one round with a strap and the other with a long handle, against a light background. The text overlay reads 'Dry Brushing & Lymphatic Drainage Routine That Promises Glowy Skin & Long-Term Benefits'.
A text box titled 'WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DRY BRUSHING?' listing benefits such as exfoliation, improved circulation, lymphatic drainage, cellulite appearance reduction, and stress relief.
A text box titled 'THE SCIENCE BEHIND DRY BRUSHING' explaining how dry brushing works through skin physiology, circulation dynamics, and stimulating the lymphatic system for detoxification.
Dry Brushing Routine for Smoother, Younger Skin🚿✨
Dry brushing is an ancient practice that has made a remarkable comeback in the modern wellness landscape. With roots in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine, this practice involves brushing the skin with a firm, natural bristle brush to achieve numerous benefits for skin health and o
Chalie_Baker

Chalie_Baker

4862 likes

Things I wish I knew when I was younger:
#godlovesyou #mindfulness #mindset #relationship #relationshipadvice #relationships #youngerselfadvice #growingup #faith
Mina 🤍

Mina 🤍

50 likes

Verses I Wish I Applied When I Was Younger Pt. 🙌🏾
#gospelspreader #childofGod #christianwomen #christianlifestyle
Breonna Gildon Wright

Breonna Gildon Wright

707 likes

A sunset over a body of water with a sandy beach foreground, displaying the title 'Advice to younger girls (things i wish an older girl could've told me)' and an invitation for older girls to share advice and younger girls to ask questions.
A serene landscape with a body of water and trees under a warm sky, featuring text advising younger girls to speak up if something doesn't feel right, emphasizing the importance of expressing concerns.
A mountain and lake landscape with pine trees, overlaid with text warning younger girls not to trust guys over 18 while they are minors, highlighting potential dangers and manipulation.
Advice to younger girls...
Growing up without an older girl to talk to or get advice from was HARD. I always wanted an older sister but all I had was my mom. During the rough times, I didn't want to talk to mom,I was scared. I hope younger girls begin to use their voice and speak up for themselves, even when its scary. I
Maggie Ann

Maggie Ann

114 likes

I Wish I Knew About Periods When I Was Younger
When I got my first period, I remember feeling confused, embarrassed, and a little scared. No one really talked about it openly, and everything I knew came from awkward school lessons or whispered conversations with friends. Now, looking back, there are so many things I wish someone had told me. If
Doc Bezz

Doc Bezz

351 likes

Things I Wish I Could Tell Younger Me
Sometimes I wish I could go back time just to give myself advice. What’s the phrase, if I knew then what I know now… But since I can’t, here’s my advice for any 20 year olds, from your 34 year old big sis. XOXO, LC #advice #embracevulnerability #Lemon8Diary #lifestyle #Diary #advi
LC Chere

LC Chere

317 likes

Oh back when I was younger..
#lemon8diarychallenge #edits
A.l.i.c.e✨🏐

A.l.i.c.e✨🏐

2 likes

Skincare Mistakes I Made When I was Younger
When I look back at my younger self skincare routine or the lack thereof I cringe at some of the mistakes I made. Thankfully I have learned a lot and my skin is much happier now. These are the biggest skincare mistakes I made when I was younger and how I corrected them now. #skincare #lemon8ch
Beauty

Beauty

507 likes

One thing I wish I knew when I was younger
#girlgrowth #lemon8challenge #takecontrolofyourlife #grace #trueself People will always have an opinion of you, no matter what you do. But opinions are just perception and perception is shaped by personal experience, environment, and self-awareness. When someone is closed-minded or
🥞🥨🥐Guava-rosado 🌹💐🐸

🥞🥨🥐Guava-rosado 🌹💐🐸

0 likes

A young girl with braided hair and a serious expression wears a light-colored t-shirt with a dog graphic. She stands in front of a lake and snow-capped mountains. The text "ADVICE I'D GIVE MY YOUNGER SELF" is overlaid at the top, and "lemon8 @natalia.kocab" is at the bottom left.
Advice I’d give my younger self
✨ Things I Wish I Knew When I Was Younger ✨ Looking back at this photo brings so many memories and lessons learned. I was always called “wise for my age” because I was the oldest in a family of three and born to immigrant parents. Being parentified definitely left a lasting impact on me. If I co
Natalia Kocąb

Natalia Kocąb

6 likes

Your Younger Self…
“Your younger self is in awe of you right now, of who you’ve become, and how hard you’ve fought to get here. Your younger self is and always will be your biggest fan.” -Heal to Glow #healtoglow #youngerself #embracevulnerability #healingjourney #green
Sarah

Sarah

3 likes

A hand with pink nails holds a light green jar of hydrating body butter, labeled with text about pistachio. The image has overlay text that reads "PISTACHIO DONE RIGHT Nutty Goodness."
Pistachio Done Right! 💚
I know I’m late when it comes to this brand…but better late than never! ☺️ When I opened the container, I didn’t know if I wanted to use it right away or eat it 😂 It LITERALLY smells just like pistachio ice cream. It’s so creamy and nutty. It took me back to when I was younger because pistachio
Shanté 💖

Shanté 💖

97 likes

Fat Joe with me when I was younger
#fatjoe #newyork #hiphop #lemon8creator
omgitislilrail

omgitislilrail

11 likes

Pageant photos of me when I was younger 🫶🌟✨📸💕💕
#pageantlife #pageantdress #pageantjourney #pageantprincess #pageantwinner
🎀💕~Kayleespamzzzz_1🎀💕

🎀💕~Kayleespamzzzz_1🎀💕

0 likes

Profile picture when I was younger!!!
I think this was 2017
Bhadbhaby

Bhadbhaby

14 likes

Photos when I was younger with her
#dearmom #lemon8contest #lovelettertomom Dear Mom, You were the best dance mom I ever met! You did my makeup, costume changes, and even my hair. It was chaos but we did it together. I love you!
Urfavrandomgirly

Urfavrandomgirly

5 likes

The book I wish I had when I was younger 😩
You can’t expect a breakthrough while still living like you’re in control 🤷🏾‍♀️ At some point, I had to stop: • just reading scripture • just going to church • just saying “I believe” …and actually TRUST God with my life. Not just the polished parts but the messy, confusing, in-betwee
Breonna Gildon Wright

Breonna Gildon Wright

7 likes

Becoming the me I always wanted to be 🥰🍋
Growing up I always wanted to dance,sing ,act, do karate,…etc and I did most of those things when I was younger, but I always wanted to do it on the big screen 📺So this year I’m taking my time and becoming not only the me I always wanted to be but the me I always wanted to be but better so follow m
Aubrenay 💗

Aubrenay 💗

5 likes

Two young girls, a baby and a toddler, wearing matching red, white, and blue soccer jerseys. They are standing indoors, smiling, with text overlays indicating these are childhood photos.
A baby with food on her face and hands, sitting in a bright pink high chair. She is smiling at the camera, with a pink bowl and spoon on the tray.
A baby with dark hair, wearing a white and pink patterned sweater, sitting on a dark leather couch. The baby is holding a black portable gaming device.
Some photos of me when I was younger
#gettoknowme Just random💸 👀
Ari🫧💸

Ari🫧💸

4 likes

Letters to a Younger Me
Dear little M., I know it feels impossible right now. Like your voice is too quiet to be heard. But one day, love… So many people will whisper, “me too” because of your words. Love, The future writer you always hoped to be. #dearyoungerme #lettertomyself #poetryheals #writersjourney
wordsbymallshouse

wordsbymallshouse

8 likes

Dear Younger Me Challenge 🫶✨🌸
🌈 Post a picture of your younger self… And write a letter to them. What would you say now that you’ve survived so much? What truth does that little you need to hear today? 📝 Use this prompt: “Dear Younger Me, I’m sorry you had to…” or “Dear Younger Me, thank you for holding on.” Tag it wi
Chakrabaeselfcare

Chakrabaeselfcare

15 likes

Rocky when he was younger
#MyPetDiary #forevermissed #rip
Tricia03021981

Tricia03021981

2 likes

A close-up of a person with burgundy hair and dramatic eye makeup featuring long lashes and white glitter. Overlay text reads "I regret ever dating — MY LIFE — Let me tell you why," reflecting on past dating experiences.
I should’ve waited when it came to dating
I know im still young, but I honestly regret jumping into the dating scene. During high school I enjoyed getting attention from anyone really. It made me feel wanted even if I knew they didn’t really want me for me. I was sexualized from a young age because of my body. The attention I was attra
Ayanna

Ayanna

11 likes

I used to be an avid reader when I was younger and
#books #helpmeread #commentsonbooks #lemon8bookclub
BooitsBecca🎀

BooitsBecca🎀

0 likes

When the World Offers Rain, Be the Flame
Some of us were never taught how to rest. We just kept going. Even with our shoulders heavy. Even with our hearts breaking. Even when the world gave nothing but rain, we became the light anyway. Not because we wanted to — but because no one else would. Because someone had to hold it down.
Dear.Rachel

Dear.Rachel

36 likes

A person stands in a sunlit courtyard with archways and lush green plants, looking towards an opening. The title 'A LETTER TO MY YOUNGER SELF: YOU WILL BE OKAY' is overlaid on the image.
A laptop, a glass of iced coffee, and a journal rest on a white bedspread. Overlaid text advises to 'Embrace Uncertainty' and 'Be Kinder to Yourself' as part of life's lessons.
A picnic scene on sand features two wine glasses, a baguette, and a tray of cheeses. Overlaid text encourages to 'Take More Risks' and reminds 'You Are Enough' for self-worth.
A Letter to My Younger Self: You will be Okay
Dear Younger Me, I wish you could see how everything is going to work out, even though it doesn’t feel that way right now. Life is full of uncertainties, and while it’s hard to know what’s coming next, trust me—things have a way of falling into place. I want you to stop being so hard on yourself
HHibs

HHibs

12 likes

do i like ok this is me when i was younger
unknown

unknown

1 like

Advice for your younger self
Hello ladies and possibly gents, First off, happy Mothers Day to all the amazing mothers out there!!🫶🏽 I saw another creator do this on instagram and thought it was a wonderful idea. So the question was, what is your biggest regret or mistake, so that others don’t do the same. But I wanted t
Abbie Louise

Abbie Louise

7 likes

Hope Springs Eternal: Thank You, Younger Me 💛
When I asked him what gives him hope, he reflected on his younger self — idealistic, full of energy, always trying to convince older, cynical people to believe in hope. Now, he sees that same spirit in every new generation. Hope, he says, is contagious — just like doubt or fear. It’s about choos
hopeseeders

hopeseeders

1 like

What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self?
1) Boys suck, stay away from them for as long as possible. 2) Just because he is older than you, does not mean you can pull. He is just a weirdo. Like actually. 3) It’s not worth the energy or the tears to compare yourself to your classmates bodies. Everyone is different. 4) This small town is
Makinzey 🎀

Makinzey 🎀

23 likes

💌 Letter to My Younger Self
This one's for the girls healing the version of themselves they used to hide Use this sound and write your own letter. Share your letter & Tag me. With Love Tae #healing #fyp #childhood
Tasia Adams

Tasia Adams

1 like

A young person sits on the floor with their head down, covering their face, against a wall and door. Pink text overlay reads "ADVICE I WISH I HAD AS A Teen." The Lemon8 logo and username are in the bottom left corner.
A young woman sits on a paved road, looking forward. Text overlay advises to "Focus on your education" in high school, prioritizing future benefits over friends and boys. The Lemon8 logo and username are in the bottom left corner.
A young woman takes a mirror selfie. Text overlay states "SAYING NO DOESN'T MAKE YOU LESS COOL," explaining that setting boundaries shows self-respect. The Lemon8 logo and username are in the bottom left corner.
Things I wish I could tell my younger self🚸
•If I could go back and give myself advice as a teenager these are some of the things I would say to her💭 •I remember being 16-18 like it was yesterday being in high school, feeling like no one understood me and how every situation was the biggest deal in the world •being an adult and reflect
Hope C

Hope C

36 likes

Dystopian Books I Read When I was Younger
Here are seven dystopian themed books I read in middle school and high school that I loved! Each book/book series has its own distinct plot while still fitting the dystopian mould. 1) Pure by Juliana Baggott ⭐️10/10 - This story is set in a post apocalyptic world where people are separated int
SunshineIdalia

SunshineIdalia

162 likes

A Duolingo app screenshot displays a 417-day learning streak, marked by a yellow flame icon. It shows a weekly progress bar with Tuesday highlighted, encouraging the user to continue learning tomorrow to reach a 418-day streak.
Wish my mom had thought me when I was younger
I’ve been on a journey to learn Spanish. My comprehension is better but I’m still intimidated #duolingo @Duolingo
Chantel Ashlee

Chantel Ashlee

1 like

BEST ADVICE I WOULD GIVE TO MY YOUNGER SELF 🥰
#letschat I would say to my younger self is to be yourself nomatterwhat you should know that your beautiful inside and out don’t worry bout boys they come and go don’t worry bout jealous friends they don’t stay for long , you should follow your dreams keep pushing because at the end it all works
🦋Keyonna🦋

🦋Keyonna🦋

4 likes

Younger me was a diva🌸
Just a little video about diva younger me and happy thoughts always
Theyfw_Paige

Theyfw_Paige

1 like

See more