I recently turned 23, and it’s shifted my perspective on life, as it often does at certain milestones. Throughout my childhood and teenage years, I entertained various career aspirations: from wanting to be a teacher at 6, to dreaming of becoming a doctor at 10, envisioning myself as a physics professor at 14, and aspiring to be an entrepreneur by the time I turned 18.
We’re often told that if we get good grades, everything will fall into place. So, I diligently followed this advice and excelled in my studies. Then the narrative changed to getting into a good college to secure a bright future. So, I did just that—I gained admission to one of the most prestigious universities in my country. However, despite achieving these milestones, the confusion and uncertainty lingered.
From early on, we’re handed a script for life: Get good grades, stay out of trouble, attend a good university, land a well-paying job, start a family. But is that all there is to life?
While I may not have all the answers, being midway through my 20s, I can offer a candid perspective. Life in your 20s isn’t about proving others wrong; it’s about discovering what truly makes you happy. Embrace the journey—the twists, turns, highs, lows, and unexpected detours—rather than fixating on reaching a predefined destination.
Instead of fixating on where you think you should be by a certain age, focus on the journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
When I graduated with an engineering degree, conventional wisdom dictated that I should pursue a career in engineering. And for a while, I did just that. But the corporate grind left me feeling unfulfilled and unhappy. So, I took a leap of faith, pursued my passions, embarked on solo projects, and connected with like-minded individuals globally. It was a challenging period of unemployment and soul-searching, but it ultimately led me to a path of greater fulfillment.
Your 20s are a time to pursue your passions, experiment, and explore. Make mistakes, take chances, and do what you love.
Self-care is paramount. Your decisions and habits today shape the person you’ll become. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Nourish your body with nutritious food, stay active, and make time for activities that bring you joy.
Dreams require sacrifice. Success seldom comes easy. Be prepared to make sacrifices, say no to distractions, and stay committed to your goals, even in the face of adversity.
Live life to the fullest. Seek discomfort, make memories, and step out of your comfort zone. But remember to differentiate between needs and wants, and prioritize what truly matters.
Learn essential life skills that school didn’t teach you—like managing finances, investing, and saving. Take initiative to educate yourself and expand your knowledge.
People will change, and that’s okay. As you navigate your 20s, you’ll notice shifts in relationships. Some friendships may evolve, while others may fade away. Embrace growth and change, and cherish the relationships that withstand the test of time.
Above all, know that you’re enough. It’s okay not to have everything figured out. Take this time to discover yourself, define your values, and live authentically, free from societal pressures and expectations.
