by Darpan Sachdeva
As I stand on the summit of my 50s, gazing back at the winding path that led me here, I’m filled with a sense of wonder and gratitude. The journey through my 20s, 30s, and 40s has been a thrilling adventure, peppered with triumphs and tribulations, laughter and tears, and countless lessons learned.
Now, armed with the wisdom of hindsight and the scars of experience, I find myself wishing I could reach back through time and whisper some hard-earned truths into the ear of my younger self. If I could, these would be the 15 golden nuggets of advice I’d share – each one a beacon of light illuminating the path ahead.
From the exhilarating highs of unexpected success to the gut-wrenching lows of failure and heartbreak, every moment has shaped me into who I am today. And while I wouldn’t change a thing about my journey, I can’t help but wonder how these insights might have transformed my younger years.
So, to all the bright-eyed twentysomethings out there, standing at the threshold of adulthood with the world at your feet, this one’s for you. Buckle up for a rollercoaster ride through 15 life-changing revelations that I wish I’d known when I was in my 20s. These aren’t just pieces of advice; they’re keys to unlocking your full potential and living a life beyond your wildest dreams.
Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and maybe even a little uncomfortable. After all, growth rarely happens in our comfort zones. So, let’s dive in and explore these game-changing insights that have the power to reshape your future and set you on a path to extraordinary living.
1.Family is everything.
Family is the bedrock of our existence, the constant in a world of variables. They are the ones who will be there no matter what. I’ve had both friendships and relationships come and go in my life, but the one constant has always been my family. Regardless of the situation or circumstance, they have stood by me through the good times and the bad.
Treat your family like they are the greatest people on earth because, in many ways, they are. They’ve seen you at your worst and still love you unconditionally. They celebrate your successes as if they were their own. As the years pass, you’ll realize that the memories you create with your family are among the most precious.
As the renowned poet Maya Angelou once said,
“I sustain myself with the love of family.”
This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the power of family bonds. Similarly, Mother Teresa emphasized,
“The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother.”
This highlights the importance of nurturing family relationships.
Remember, family doesn’t always mean blood relations. Sometimes, it’s the people who choose to stand by you through thick and thin. Cherish these connections, nurture them, and never take them for granted.
2.Time is an illusion.
When we’re young, it often feels like we have our whole lives ahead of us. This perception can lead to procrastination – putting off reading that book we’ve always wanted to read, not reaching out to old friends, neglecting daily exercise, failing to save and invest, or missing out on experiences. However, as we age, we realize how quickly time passes and how much of it we’ve wasted planning instead of acting.
The famous physicist Albert Einstein once said,
“The distinction between past, present, and future is only a stubbornly persistent illusion.”
This profound statement reminds us that time is a construct, and how we perceive and use it is entirely up to us.
To make the most of your time, start living intentionally now. Set goals, create habits, and take action. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment – it may never come. As author Mark Twain wisely noted,
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”
Remember, every moment you have is a gift. Use it wisely, for as Benjamin Franklin said,
“Lost time is never found again.”
3.Take more risks.
Youth is the perfect time for taking calculated risks. When you’re young, you have more opportunities to fail, which means more opportunities to learn and, ultimately, more opportunities to succeed. Each failure makes you wiser and stronger, preparing you for future challenges and successes. The legendary entrepreneur Richard Branson once said,
“If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later”
This mindset embodies the spirit of risk-taking that can lead to extraordinary achievements. Taking risks doesn’t mean being reckless. It means stepping out of your comfort zone, trying new things, and not being afraid to fail. As basketball legend Michael Jordan put it,
“I can accept failure; everyone fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying.”
Remember, the biggest risk in life is not taking any risks at all. Embrace uncertainty, for it’s often the pathway to growth and success.
4.Don’t work hard, work smart.
While hard work is important, working smart is equally crucial. Don’t stress over the small stuff at work, and more importantly, don’t let your work schedule dictate your life. Take control over your life and schedule it according to your priorities.
The billionaire Warren Buffett wisely said,
“The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything.”
This emphasizes the importance of focusing on what truly matters and not getting bogged down by unnecessary tasks.
Working smart means being efficient, prioritizing tasks, and knowing when to delegate. It also means taking care of yourself to avoid burnout. As the author Stephen Covey put it,
“The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”
Remember, your work is a part of your life, not your entire life. Strive for balance and efficiency in your professional life to create space for personal growth and enjoyment.
5.Manners are essential.
Good manners are the oil that keeps the machinery of society running smoothly. A simple ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ can take you far in life. This extends to taking the time to express gratitude for things people have done for you or for helping you. A simple thank you card in the mail can absolutely make someone’s day.
As the etiquette expert Emily Post once said,
“Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use.”
This reminds us that at the heart of good manners is consideration for others.
Good manners aren’t just about following rules; they’re about showing respect and consideration for those around you. They can open doors, build relationships, and create a positive impression that lasts long after you’ve left the room.
Remember, as William of Wykeham wisely noted,
“Manners maketh man.” Your behavior and how you treat others is a reflection of your character.”
6.You can’t change a person or save the whole world in one go.
It’s a common misconception that we can change others or single-handedly save the world. The truth is you can’t change anyone – that’s not your job. Your job is to accept and love them for who they are. If they’re draining your energy, learn to love them from a distance.
The Dalai Lama wisely said,
“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.”
This reminds us that while we may not be able to change the world overnight, our small actions can have a significant impact.
Instead of trying to save the world, focus on making a difference one person at a time. Be a friend, listen, empathize, share your time, and let others feel that they matter. Never underestimate the power of kindness.
Remember, as Mahatma Gandhi said,
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Start with yourself, and your positive influence will naturally spread to others.
7.Learn about Finances.
Understanding finances is crucial, even if it seems boring or not immediately applicable. To make money, you need to understand money, unless you’re one of the very few who luck out.
The billionaire investor Warren Buffett emphasizes this point:
“The most important investment you can make is in yourself.”
This includes investing time in learning about finances.
Start by understanding basic concepts like budgeting, saving, investing, and compound interest. Learn about different financial instruments and how they work. This knowledge will serve you well throughout your life, helping you make informed decisions about your money.
Remember, as the author Robert Kiyosaki said,
“It’s not how much money you make, but how much money you keep, how hard it works for you, and how many generations you keep it for.”
Financial literacy is a lifelong skill that can significantly impact your future.
8.Find happiness within yourself.
Happiness is an inside job. Don’t rely on other people or material things for your happiness. Unhappiness often leads to poor choices, so it’s crucial to cultivate inner joy and contentment.
The Dalai Lama wisely said,
“Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.”
This reminds us that we are responsible for our own happiness.
Practice gratitude, mindfulness, and self-care. Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your happiness – it’s not selfish, it’s necessary.
As the author Roald Dahl put it,
“If you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sunbeams, and you will always look lovely.”
Cultivate positivity and watch how it transforms your life.
9.Learn to love yourself.
Self-love is the foundation of a fulfilled life. When you look in the mirror, tell yourself you’re handsome or beautiful. Say it often. You’re unique, and no one looks quite like you. Embrace your individuality and love it.
The psychologist Carl Rogers said,
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
This highlights the transformative power of self-acceptance.
Practice self-compassion, celebrate your strengths, and work on your weaknesses without judgment. Remember, you are worthy of love and respect, starting with the love and respect you give yourself.
As Oscar Wilde wisely noted,
“To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.”
Nurture this romance with yourself and watch how it positively impacts every aspect of your life.
10.It’s you versus you.
Stop comparing yourself to others. You might never be the strongest person in the gym, the richest person on a Forbes list, or the fastest runner in a marathon. If that upsets you, you’re missing the point.
The basketball legend Michael Jordan said,
“I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”
This reminds us that success is about personal growth and overcoming our own limitations.
Focus on being better today than you were yesterday. If you keep doing that, you’ll be successful. It may not happen right away, but if you stay focused on improving just a little every day, you’ll amaze yourself.
Remember, as Theodore Roosevelt said,
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” Your journey is unique, and your only real competition is with yourself.”
11.Stop worrying so much about what other people think.
Letting the opinions of your peers influence your decisions is one of the worst things you can do. You’ll realize later just how foolish it was. The only thing that is important is what you think and feel about yourself.
The author Dr. Seuss wisely said,
“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”
This encapsulates the freedom that comes from living authentically.
Cultivate self-confidence and trust in your own judgment. While it’s okay to consider others’ opinions, don’t let them dictate your life choices. Your life is yours to live.
Remember, as Ralph Waldo Emerson put it,
“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
12.Make good friends.
Friendships are one of life’s greatest treasures. Make good friends, the ones who will stick by you during bad times. These are the people who will celebrate your successes and support you through your failures.
The philosopher Aristotle said,
“A friend to all is a friend to none.”
This reminds us of the importance of cultivating deep, meaningful friendships rather than superficial connections.
Invest time and effort in your friendships. Be there for your friends and allow them to be there for you. However, remember not to rely solely on others for your happiness. True friendship enhances your life but doesn’t define it.
“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.'”
As the writer C.S. Lewis beautifully put it,
Cherish these connections that make life richer and more meaningful.
13.Take care of your health.
Your health is your wealth. Take care of your body now, and you will have to spend less on fixing it later. Eat healthful food, work out regularly, and stay away from typical vices – your body will thank you later in life.
The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates wisely said,
“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”
This emphasizes the importance of nutrition in maintaining good health.
Develop healthy habits early. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management are investments in your future well-being. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.
As the author Jim Rohn put it,
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.”
Your body is your most valuable asset – treat it with the care and respect it deserves.
14.Heartbreak is part of life.
You’ll likely get your heart broken, maybe once, maybe twice. It’s all part of the package. Only a very few are lucky enough to end up with their first love. Most of us will have to meet a few wrong people before we meet the right one.
The poet Alfred Lord Tennyson wisely said,
“Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.”
This reminds us that even painful experiences contribute to our growth and understanding of love.
Each heartbreak, while painful, teaches us valuable lessons about ourselves, our needs, and what we want in a partner. It’s through these experiences that we grow and become ready for the right relationship when it comes along.
Remember, as the author Haruki Murakami wrote,
“Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.”
Allow yourself to feel the pain of heartbreak, but don’t let it define you or stop you from loving again.
15.Be honest with yourself and others.
Honesty is the foundation of all meaningful relationships, including the one you have with yourself. Always be true to yourself and others. Period. Honesty gives you peace of mind, and peace of mind is priceless.
The author Mark Twain once said,
“If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.”
This highlights the simplicity and freedom that comes with honesty.
Being honest doesn’t mean being brutally blunt. It means being authentic, keeping your word, and having integrity in your actions. It means facing your truths, even when they’re uncomfortable.
Remember, as Shakespeare wrote,
“To thine own self be true.”
When you’re honest with yourself, you’ll naturally be honest with others, leading to more genuine and fulfilling relationships.
Bonus Advice: Learn how to code.
In today’s digital age, coding has become an invaluable skill. Whether you’re interested in a career in technology or not, understanding the basics of coding can enhance your problem-solving skills and open up new opportunities.
As the co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, said,
“Learning to write programs stretches your mind, and helps you think better, creates a way of thinking about things that I think is helpful in all domains.”
Start with basic coding languages and gradually build your skills. Remember, it’s never too late to learn, and the digital literacy you gain will serve you well in many aspects of life.
Your 20s are a time of growth, exploration, and self-discovery. While these lessons are things I wish I knew earlier, remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Embrace your experiences, learn from them, and use them to shape the person you want to become. As you navigate through life, keep an open mind, stay curious, and never stop learning. Your 20s are just the beginning of an exciting lifelong journey of growth and self-improvement.
Darpan Sachdeva is the CEO and Founder of Nobelthoughts.com. Driven by a profound dedication to Entrepreneurship, Self-development, and Success over an extended period, Darpan initiated his website with the aim of enlightening and motivating individuals globally who share similar aspirations. His mission is to encourage like-minded individuals to consistently pursue success, irrespective of their circumstances, perpetually moving forward, maintaining resilience, and extracting valuable lessons from every challenge.
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