Dear Younger Me: What I Wish I Knew in My 20s

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Introduction

Your 20s feel like the launchpad of life.
Degrees, first salary, endless dreams—and silent pressure to have it all figured out.

Looking back from where I am today at 34, I don’t regret my 20s. But I do see things more clearly. If I could meet my 22-year-old self today, I wouldn’t scold him. I’d smile, listen, and share a few truths he didn’t yet know.

If you’re in your 20s—or just starting adulthood—maybe this letter is for you too.


1. Stop Comparing. Seriously.

Everyone’s posting highlights. You’re living the full movie.
It’s unfair to compare your “behind the scenes” to someone else’s “best of.”

Focus on your growth, not their glamour. Stay in your lane. It’s longer, but it’s real.


2. Start Saving. Even If It’s Small.

Don’t wait for a “big salary” to begin investing.
Start with ₹500. Learn SIPs. Understand compounding.

Money isn’t just about cars and vacations. It’s about choices, safety, and peace of mind.

Respect money now, and it’ll respect you later.


3. Mental Health > Hustle

Yes, work hard. But burnout is not a badge of honour.
If you’re constantly anxious, sleepless, or snapping—pause.

Therapy is not weakness. Rest is not laziness.
Taking care of your mind is the smartest investment.


4. Learn to Say “No”

To toxic friendships. To overpromising. To things that drain you.

Your time and energy are your currency. Spend them where they matter.

Saying “no” is self-respect—not selfishness.


5. Relationships Matter More Than You Think

Call your parents. Make time for friends.
Not everyone will stay—but invest in those who do.

At the end of the day, success is nice. But connection is what fills your heart.


6. You Don’t Have to Know It All

You’ll feel lost. It’s normal.
You’ll doubt yourself. That’s growth.

The goal isn’t to figure out everything—it’s to keep learning, asking, evolving.


7. Health Is Wealth—Literally

Sleep enough. Walk more. Eat food, not just snacks.
What you do in your 20s shows up in your 40s.

Don’t wait for a diagnosis to start caring for your body.


Final Thought

Dear younger me,

You don’t need to rush.
You don’t need to be perfect.
You just need to keep showing up, keep learning, and be kinder to yourself.

There’s no deadline for becoming who you’re meant to be.


What Next?


Your 20s aren’t about having all the answers—they’re about building the right habits that will carry you forward.

What’s one lesson you wish your younger self had learned sooner?
Drop a comment below or tag someone in their 20s who needs to hear this.

Enjoyed this post? You might also like:
šŸ‘‰ 5 Health Mistakes Even Educated People Still Make Daily

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