If we consider the ages 20-23 the “early twenties”, 24-26 the “mid twenties”, and 27-29 the “late twenties” then I’ve just entered the “mid twenties” category. I used to dread getting older each year, thinking my youth was escaping me and that adulthood was some scary thing that was irreversible (which I suppose it technically is). For the first time I was excited to turn a year older because I realized that all the things I’ve been learning about myself in my “early twenties” I want to acknowledge, accept, and respect. And there are some things I’m just straight up ecstatic to leave behind. Here are the 5 life changing things I’d like to say adios (and f*ck you) to and leave in the “early twenties” category.
1. A shitty part time job. No one wants you, you crappy-barely-above-minimum-wage-job #sorrynotsorry. It is people’s lifetime goal to leave you and never go back. Earning a full time job where people value you and your work is one by far one of the most rewarding moments in your twenties.
2. Going out to the bars and staying there until 2am. This activity gets old quick (let’s be real, it’s just not the same once you’re out of college). And if you move back in with your parents after graduating it’s kind of weird strolling in after 2am, no matter how chill they are. Also, this should be no one’s favorite past time or hobby for their entire twenties. I promise, there are more hobbies out there that are way more fulfilling and satisfying than partying every weekend.
3. Basing how much fun I had on how drunk I was. Yeah, I used to do that. I used to drink to get drunk, but that’s expensive and never fun the next day. Not being hung-over is the greatest thing ever. And basing how much fun you are having on true laughter, pure happiness, and enjoyment is probably is better measure of fun than how drunk you are. Oh, did I say probably? I meant absolutely-most-definitely a better measure. Try it one day, you just may like it.
4. Feeding into insecurities. We all have insecurities and they may never go away forever. But accepting these insecurities and nurturing them is far better than feeding into them.
5. Pleasing others before pleasing myself. I used to think I had to do everything I was asked of or invited to, regardless if I actually wanted to or not. Some people are worth doing things for (or with) while others are not. It’s up to you to decide who is worth it because if you do it for everyone all the time, it becomes stressful and can strain the relationships with those you really do care about. Taking yourself into consideration is never selfish, in certain situations, it can actually be selfless.
