Living and Learning: A Guide to Thriving in Your 20s
Life in your 20s is like trying to fold a fitted sheet - messy, confusing, often hilarious, and sometimes you wonder if you're even doing it right.
As the saying goes;
"Your 20s are your 'selfish' years. It's a decade to immerse yourself in every single thing possible. Be selfish with your time, and all the aspects of you. Tinker with sh*t, travel, explore, love a lot, love a little, and never touch the ground."
So if i could go back and tell my 19 year old self the things i've had to learn the hard way, this is what they'd be;
Relationships
Choose Your Company Wisely: Remember, you're not collecting Pokémon; your partners will impact every aspect of your life. So, take your time, it's better to be single a little longer, i promise.
Self-Improvement Comes First: Before you invest in any relationship, invest in yourself. Self-love, self-awareness, and personal growth are your power-ups. A relationship shouldn't complete you it should complement you.
Know When to Let Go: Toxic relationships are like a bad hangover - painful and unnecessary. If someone consistently shows you who they are, don't be afraid to hit the eject button. It may feel like the end of the world, it's not.
Surround Yourself with Motivators: Find people who motivate you, and let their energy lift you up. Someone who want's to explore the world as much as you do. Life's too short to accept anything less.
Communication is Key: Healthy relationships thrive on open and honest communication. Be clear on your boundaries, expectations and trust that the right person for you will meet and respect them.
Finances:
Budgeting is Key: I now have a "cost of living spreadsheet" (i really am that type of person) But honestly nothing has helped me more in my 20's navigate the twists and turns of your financial journey, so you don't end up in a money traffic jam.
Enjoy Financial Freedom: I moved out at 20... don't get me wrong i don't regret it, but before you commit to mortgages and financial responsibilities that come with adulthood, savor the freedom of your 20s. Travel, explore, and invest in memories. Often you will have more disposable income, so be sensible, but enjoy it.
Save Wisely: Savings may not seem sexy, but they're like a secret stash of chocolate - you'll thank yourself later. Start early, even if it's just a nibble.
Invest/Pensions: Yes - this is future Louises problem, but think of it as planting seeds that will grow into money trees someday.
Plan for Emergencies: Be prepared with an emergency fund because sometimes, life throws you curveballs... you could like me, scratch your car on a lamp post.
Work:
Never Stop Learning: The professional world is a never-ending rollercoaster. Embrace it. Continuously learning is something you need to keep pushing yourself to do.
Build Your Network: We hear it time and time again- "It's not what you know, it's who you know." Networking is like making new friends, but for your career. Build genuine relationships with people; mentors, friends and people you admire. You never know how much these relationships will help you!
Embrace Mistakes: We all make them and so we should! In your 20s, think of mistakes as your personal blooper reel. Learn from them, laugh at them, and keep moving forward.
Spot Opportunities: Opportunities often dress up as challenges. Keep your eyes peeled and your mind open, because sometimes, the best opportunities come when you least expect them.
Set Clear Career Goals: You don't need to have a 10 year plan to be successful but set yearly objectives and level up. Remember, it's okay to change goals if you discover they're not right for you.
Life:
Spend Time with Yourself: Spend time alone, discover your interests, and who you are and who you want to be. Once you get confident in who you are, outside opinions matter a whole lot less.
Slow Down: Life in your 20s can feel like a frenzied race. Take breaks, breathe, and appreciate the journey. Sometimes, the best moments happen in the slow lane and its important not to burn yourself out.
Pursue Individual Passions: Remember, you're not a clone. Pursue hobbies and passions that light your fire, for me? It ended up being body building... something that would shock the version of me that hated PE.
Set Goals and Trust the Universe: Your life is like a choose-your-own-adventure book. Set goals, but don't be afraid to let the universe write a few chapters. It's full of plot twists.
Practice Gratitude: Last but not least, be grateful. Everything you have a version of you once wanted, don't forget to be proud of who you're becoming.
Your 20s are a wild ride (one that i still have 3 more years of). It's messy, confusing, emotional, thrilling, and everything in between. Just remember, you're not alone in this chaotic adventure. Embrace the uncertainty, make mistakes, laugh, love, and cherish every moment. And most importantly, be kind to yourself. You've got this!
