Lessons from my 20s and beyond
Updated: Sep 16
Phew. What a ride. I turned 30 at the end of February, and I am still embracing the start of this new decade and phase of life. It felt like a new beginning. Over the last few months, I reflected upon all my 20s have taught me. They have indeed been the foundation, the stepping stones to my life.
Looking back on all the experiences - the good and the challenging- I realize how much I have learned about myself. All the experiences have brought me closer to myself. That alone is the greatest gift. I believe the best version of ourselves must constantly evolve because it's not about a destination but a journey. Each new chapter requires us to let go of something to make room for a new version of growth.
If I could sum up what my 20s taught me, it would come down to this list:
Your time is valuable. Choose the energy you surround yourself with wisely.
You can only control your effort and attitude.
Stay true to yourself, always.
Letting go of what no longer serves you is necessary.
Trust your intuition.
Over this last decade, I have learned that prioritizing your time and energy should be non-negotiable. It's essential to look inward and reassess what your energy is going toward, especially regarding relationships and friendships. Does this person match your energy? Do they add to your inner peace or deplete you? We can't expect other people to take accountability for ourselves. It must start by looking inward and asking, at times, some difficult questions. It's part of the self-love journey, even when it may seem like the most challenging decision. It's important to remember that you hold the power to decide who has access to your energy.
Understanding the importance of being honest with yourself is an evolving process. As you grow and discover deeper parts of yourself, you identify what matters most to you and what no longer serves you. This goes hand in hand with staying true to yourself.
In my 20s, especially at the start of my career, I remember seeking constant validation from those around me in my work and relationships. It wasn't until I learned that the proof I sought was already within me. Staying true to yourself means accepting all aspects of yourself. Self-acceptance is vital to owning and staying in your power.
If I could tell my younger self one thing – it would be that the answers are already within me and to listen to my inner voice. It's easy to get carried away in self-doubt. My 20s were full of it. However, once I became self-aware of what was most important for my growth, opinions from the outside world faded. I suddenly no longer searched for them. I was able to turn the doubt into confidence. Most importantly, I learned to trust myself and my journey.
Your success will look different than someone else's because no journey can be the same. It's unique because it's yours. Embrace your own pace, your path, and your own story. Keep showing up for you.