What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self?
By: Brian Hoeflinger, MD
January 11, 2026 | #71
Forwarded this email? Sign up here.
Disclaimer: Opinions are my own. Not medical advice.
Medical Trivia of the Week
Which organ consumes the most energy at rest relative to its size? (the correct answer is at the end of this email)
- A) Heart
- B) Liver
- C) Kidneys
- D) Brain
Ten Pieces of Life Advice
Recently, I asked a simple question: “What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?”
The responses were thoughtful, honest, and deeply human. Some focused on courage. Others on health, relationships, perspective, and time. What struck me most is that while the words were directed at a younger version of ourselves, the wisdom applies just as much today, no matter our age. Here are 10 of the most liked responses we received.
1. "Believe in yourself and all that you are capable of contributing to make a positive difference in the world." - Karen
2. "Don't let your fears hold you back. Don't let other peoples' opinions influence your decisions." - Cathy
3. "Don't worry so much; most of what you worry about will never happen." - Katie
4. "No one is guaranteed a tomorrow, no matter how young or old. So appreciate each day and don't waste any precious time doing stupid things that could end your life prematurely." - Heidi
5. "Don't waste time or energy on people who do not appreciate you. Do what makes you happy." - Toscha
6. "Continue to exercise throughout your lifespan even if it is only for 10 minutes a day!" - Theresa
7. "Remember you are responsible for yourself and your actions. Don't make decisions when you are angry, hurt, tired, or if you have't fully investigated all the facts. Stay true to yourself." - Catherine
8. "Never lie to children, and when they hug you always be the last one to let go. Kids notice things a lot more than you realize and it's important for you to be a person they can trust." - Dawn
9. "Everyone makes mistakes. If you're not making any mistakes, you're not doing anything." - Tanya
10. "You are stronger than you know and you will learn from life what you need." - Kathryn
If there’s a common thread here, it’s this: time is precious, health matters, and perspective changes everything. We can’t go back and talk to our younger selves, but we can listen now. Sometimes the most important lessons aren’t new. They’re simply reminders to live more intentionally, take better care of ourselves, and focus on what truly matters.
Impactful Quote of the Week
"Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
All my best,
Brian Hoeflinger
P.S. - if you enjoyed this newsletter, you may enjoy my podcast and/or my book that details my life as neurosurgeon and the loss of my oldest son, Brian (see below a synopsis).
Check out My Book
Life and Death . . . Two words with such opposite meaning and which inflict such contradictory emotions and yet are so closely intertwined in our lives. As parents, we bring meaning and life into this world through our children. Our lives become defined as a result. We learn the joy, hardship, and responsibility of shaping an innocent life. But a day will come when that life will be taken. For some, death will come too soon. This is the story of my son, Brian Nicholas Hoeflinger, who died unexpectedly at age 18.
https://doctorhoeflinger.com/products/the-night-he-died-the-harsh-reality-of-teenage-drinking
Check out My Podcast
The Hoeflinger Podcast is about more than medicine, it’s about living a fuller, healthier, and more meaningful life. My son, Kevin, and I discuss medicine, health, fitness, lessons learned from personal tragedy, family, and purpose. Along the way, we invite inspiring guests to bring fresh insights and perspectives. Watch or listen to the podcast below.
YouTube: Click here
Apple Podcasts: Click here
Spotify: Click here
Please reply with any questions you may have or future topics that you want me to write about.
Interested in Sponsoring the Newsletter?
If you enjoyed this newsletter or previous editions, please share it with a friend. You can use this link: https://pages.doctorhoeflinger.com/posts
Medical Trivia Answer:
The correct answer is D) Brain
*Disclaimer: This newsletter and blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this newsletter and blog or materials linked from this newsletter and blog is at the user’s own risk. The content of this newsletter and blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay seeking medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should consult their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
