Letter To Me From My 85 Year Old Self

February 10, 2036

Dear Kathy,

I see you there, at 74—driven, relentless, and unstoppable. You’ve always lived with urgency, like time is something to master rather than something that masters you. And that’s good, because that fire has built everything you have. But I want you to take a breath and listen to me—your 85-year-old self.

First things first: You did it. All of it. You built the business, you grew your influence, and you left a mark. But you also learned something along the way—something that your 74-year-old self is just starting to grasp.

The Success That Matters Most

It was never about the number of agents you recruited, the luxury properties you sold, or even the global networks you created. Those were vehicles. What mattered—what lasted—was the way you taught people to think bigger, to believe in themselves, and to stop settling for mediocrity. You didn’t just show them how to make more money—you showed them how to create freedom. And that? That’s your legacy.

Time Is Not What You Think It Is

You always treated time as the rarest currency, and you weren’t wrong. But at 85, I can tell you—it stretches and bends in ways you never imagined. The things you once rushed to accomplish? They happened in their own time. The people you worried about outpacing? Some dropped off, while others surprised you. The time you thought you didn’t have for yourself? That’s the only thing I wish you had carved out more of.

So right now, while you’re in your prime—don’t forget to live inside the life you’ve built. Take the trips. Sit in the sun. Laugh—loud and often. And for the love of everything, stop worrying about whether you’re doing “enough.” You are. You always have been.

Your Body Is Listening

You did well by choosing the natural path, staying strong, and listening to your instincts. Keep going. But also, don’t be afraid to adapt. At 85, I’m still moving, still feeling good—because of the work you put in now. Pilates? Still part of the routine, though with even more focus on what feels right rather than what you think you "should" be doing. Rebounding? Oh yeah, still bouncing. And guess what? Your bones? They held up better than you feared. But it wasn’t just the physical work—it was the belief in your own strength that kept you from fading.

The People Who Matter

At 85, I look around and see the people who have stood the test of time. The ones who showed up—not just in words, but in presence. You know who they are already, so keep pouring into them. And the ones who take more than they give? Let them go. Trust me, you’ll never miss them as much as you think you will.

Kelly? She’s still your rock, your co-adventurer, your best friend. Olivia? She grew up with your fire in her veins, and she’s out there making you proud. Mike and Jess? They love you more than you’ll ever realize. Keep showing up for them all.

The Final Truth

At 85, looking back, I can tell you—none of this was random. Every hard turn, every pivot, every reinvention—it all built the woman I am now. And I love her. I love you.

So keep going, but don’t just chase—savor. Stay curious. Stay light. Stay kind, but never small. You have more time than you think, but not a second to waste.

With love and a knowing smile, Your 85-Year-Old Self

P.S. You’re still rocking the waterfront market, by the way. And yes, you finally got that villa in Portugal. ??