I’ve learned that the transitional period of being 20-something is a tough one. Life’s twists and turns are at an all-time high and the process of finding yourself is in full swing. College is tough, you’re broke, and your relationship status is complicated. While this is all part of the journey, sometimes we just need a little guidance to get us where we’re going.
These 11 things have helped shape my journey:
1. Immerse yourself in everything possible. Take a yoga class. Go on a road trip. Don’t be afraid to change your major. You can’t find your true self by being who you’ve always been.
2. Don’t be defined by the opinions of others. It took me until the age of 20 to figure out that being passionate about something you believe is the first step to happiness. Never be afraid to be you. Even when society pushes you down. Get back up.
3. Being opinionated is not the same as being informed. Succumbing to ignorance is the greatest disservice you can do to yourself. The opportunity to be informed is at your fingertips. Take it.
4. Make decisions with your future in mind. Budget, eat healthy, and study hard. Even when it’s not convenient at the time… Your future self will thank you.
5. Understand that failing is okay. I went through my entire Associate’s degree with no less than a B. It took adjustment (a lot of it) to realize that life isn’t always going to be so simple. We’re all going to make mistakes, say hateful things and hurt people we love. That’s okay- learn from it and move on.
6. Know that you’re going to get hurt. Love is hard. But if it’s real, it’s worth it. Don’t go through life with your guard up. Be careful, but love passionately.
7. Travel as often as you can. Experiencing other cultures firsthand broadens the mind like nothing else is able. And what could be better than a getaway with your girlfriends? Start now and get a head start. You won’t regret it.
8. Find an outlet. Stress is sure to be overwhelming at 20-something. Find a way to relieve it that works for you. Long bubble baths and novels are my instant cure. What’s yours?
9. Don’t judge. Bitterness only makes life more difficult for you. Have so much love in your heart that you don’t have room left for hate.
10. It’s normal to be uncertain about your journey’s end. I’ve been making life plans since the age of 10. Not until recently did I realize that it’s normal to have doubts about the future. Take each day as it comes, search for your passions and live for the moment. Enjoy life.
11. Never give up. Life will seem hard during these years, sometimes unbearable. Don’t let it consume you. Try everyday to be better than you were yesterday and live the life you have always dreamed.
"Creative Commons Balloons" by Elena Kalis, used under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
"Creative Commons Balloons" by Elena Kalis, used under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
