Back when I was 20, I often wonder what I’d say to my younger self. I sifted through old photos to jog my memory and recall that phase of my life. At that time, I had just left high school and started my first year at Cal State University Long Beach, diving into Fashion Merchandising.
I found leaving home extremely challenging, even though I was only an hour away. The memory of moving into my dorm is vivid because I didn’t know anyone there. Leaving behind my family, my dog Bitzy, and my familiar life was tough. I was anxious about sharing a room and the whole dorm experience, like communal showers and cafeteria meals. I cried when my parents left, but they reassured me with the classic “give it two weeks” line. Whether they meant it or not, I stuck it out and eventually managed four years.
Being 20 was a turning point for me, a year of many firsts. I dyed my hair platinum blonde, spent a beach-filled summer, and juggled living in my first apartment while driving a white stick-shift VW Jetta. I was obsessed with my sidekick phone, didn’t bother with my eyebrows, and had my first rough night with alcohol. Good times.
Reflecting on this inspired me to ask others what they’d tell their 20-year-old selves, gathering tons of advice. Here’s a rundown of the best insights for those in their twenties:
1. **Dump Him**: Most popular advice! Don’t waste time on toxic relationships or “on-again, off-again” flings.
2. **Start a Passion Project**: While avoiding bad relationships, dive into something creative that excites you beyond school and partying.
3. **Prioritize Skin Care**: Stay hydrated, wash your face, and care for your skin now while it’s still youthful. Trust me, it matters.
4. **You’re Not Fat**: Embrace your body as it is. I look back now and realize my body issues were misplaced.
5. **Avoid Tanning Beds**: They’re not worth it. Opt for safer tanning methods and protect your skin.
6. **Don’t Stress About Jobs**: Use this time to travel or enjoy life while you have fewer responsibilities.
7. **Diversify Your Interests**: Try various jobs or hobbies to find what you love, rather than getting stuck in a rut.
8. **Be True to Yourself**: Don’t worry about others’ opinions. Embrace your uniqueness and make choices that make you happy.
9. **Don’t Rush Adulthood**: Enjoy the moment. Life’s pressures will come soon enough, so savor this time.
10. **Stand Up for Yourself**: Discover who you are and what you believe in. Use your voice confidently.
11. **Trust the Process**: If things don’t go as planned, have faith that things will work out for the best.
12. **Skip the Bad Beer**: Save those calories and make better choices.
13. **Finish Your Degree**: Education is important, even if it doesn’t seem like it now. It lays the groundwork for your future.
14. **Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff**: Most problems will fade with time, so focus on what truly matters.
15. **Invest, Don’t Splurge**: Start saving early. Investments will pay off more than fast fashion splurges.
16. **Move on from Toxicity**: It’s okay to leave behind what no longer serves you — it’s healthier in the long run.
17. **Listen to Your Mom**: She knows more than you think and is your best guide.
18. **Be Authentic with Music**: If you hate dubstep, don’t force it. Stick to what you genuinely love.
19. **Take Scary Chances**: Embrace opportunities that intimidate you; they’ll help you grow.
20. **Love and Self-Fulfillment Will Come**: Be patient with yourself. Everything will eventually fall into place.
So, if you’re in your twenties, take this advice to heart and enjoy the journey. It’s a unique time meant for learning and self-discovery.