The phrase "one's early years" refers to the period of time in a person's life that spans from childhood through adolescence, typically up until their late teens or early twenties. This is a critical stage of development where foundational experiences and formative events shape an individual’s character, beliefs, values, and worldview. During this time, children learn to walk, talk, read, write, and develop social skills through interactions with family members, peers, teachers, and other authority figures. The early years are a crucial period for brain development, learning, and emotional growth, and lay the groundwork for future successes or challenges in life.