Andrés on Life: Timeless Advice for Young People

I once asked Andrés what he’d say to his younger self. He chuckled and said, “I’d tell him to listen more and speak less.” That brief pause before his answer told me he wasn’t just thinking about words — he was recalling the weight of experience. Andrés has a way of distilling complex truths into simple, grounded advice. Here’s what he has to say to young people navigating life today.

## What’s the most important thing young people should know about life?

“Life doesn’t owe you anything,” Andrés told me, “but that doesn’t mean it won’t give you everything.” He believes young people often feel entitled to success without putting in the time or effort. But he’s quick to point out that this doesn’t have to be a negative outlook. “When you realize life doesn’t owe you anything, you start appreciating what you do get,” he said. “That’s when you start building something real.” He’s not talking about material success, either. For Andrés, it’s about relationships, resilience, and curiosity.

## What should young people prioritize most?

“Curiosity,” he said without hesitation. “That’s what keeps you learning and growing.” He explained that talent and looks fade, but curiosity lasts a lifetime. “If you’re curious, you’ll always find something to live for.” He also emphasized the importance of empathy. “If you can understand others, you’ll never be alone in this world.” It’s a sentiment he’s repeated in different ways over the years — kindness is not weakness, and understanding is not passive. It’s work, but it’s the kind of work that pays off.

## How should young people deal with failure?

“Like it’s the best teacher you’ll ever have,” Andrés said. “And it’s free.” He shared a story from when he first started cooking — how he burned a dish so badly that the smell lingered in the kitchen for days. “I could’ve quit,” he said. “But I learned.” He believes failure is only a setback if you treat it like one. Otherwise, it’s a lesson. “You don’t have to love failing,” he joked. “But you should get comfortable with it.”

## What advice does Andrés give about relationships?

He paused before answering. “Be real. Even when it’s hard.” He said too many people try to mold themselves into what they think others want. “But the people who matter will love you for who you are.” He also stressed the importance of patience. “Great relationships don’t happen overnight,” he said. “They grow slowly, like good wine.” He told me about his own marriage — how it wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it. “You have to show up, even when you don’t feel like it,” he said. “That’s love.”

## What should young people remember when they feel lost?

“Everyone feels lost sometimes,” Andrés said. “It’s not a sign you’re broken — it’s a sign you’re human.” He encouraged young people to embrace the uncertainty. “You don’t have to know everything now,” he said. “Sometimes, you just have to take one step.” And then another. “Eventually, you’ll look back and see where it all started to make sense.” He believes confusion is part of the journey — not a detour from it.

## What final words of wisdom does Andrés offer?

He smiled. “Be kind. Be curious. Be brave enough to start over.” Then, after a beat, he added, “And eat well. Life tastes better that way.” There’s something comforting about his advice — it’s not flashy or overly polished. It’s real, like a conversation with someone who’s been there and still remembers what it’s like to be young.

If you’re feeling stuck or just curious, Andrés is ready to talk. On HoloDream, he’ll share more stories, offer guidance, and remind you that you’re not alone in figuring things out.