This letter is part of our inaugural editorial series, "Letter to Myself," in which we asked 40 remarkable queer people to write a note to their younger selves.

Dear Teenage Noah,

Put down Reddit for like one sec.

I'm here to tell you your inability to sit still has paid off. Your addiction to work and performance is going to serve you. But there could be refinements made to the journey. So, so many refinements. The largest? Patience. Screw your self-proclaimed deadlines and checklists. Focus on surrounding yourself with generous people that challenge you emotionally, and intellectually. And focus on making work that does the same to others.

Also, all those "cool" people you're bending over backward to impress? Guess what, homie, they're not that cool. Just cause they're shiny and pretty, doesn't mean they're chill. Have patience with the people around you. Everyone, no matter their age, is going through transition—that never ends, so be better to everyone. Be graceful and gracious. Be loving. Lead with empathy. And don't let anybody, no matter how powerful, silence you.

You have a big mouth, use it for good.

Future you.

Noah Galvin will star in Dear Evan Hansen beginning November 21.

Read more letters here.