If you are currently a 20-something-year-old (if you’ve passed this phase of your life, you can still relate), it’s likely you are looking at where you are right now in your life’s journey and wondering where life is going to take you. They say ‘go out and make a life for yourself as the world is your oyster’ but most of us just don’t know where to begin. We sometimes have no idea how to look ahead and plan appropriately or even how to map out a simple direction. We don’t want to make the wrong choices, which means fear often takes the wheel. But don’t fret. If you need just a small push in the right direction, we’ve listed a few important points to consider.
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Become independent as soon as you can
Becoming independent is not something you’ll achieve overnight, but you can make small choices each day to get you on your way. The first thing is to get some sort of job – even if it doesn’t pay overly well, and even if it’s not what you see yourself doing for the rest of your life. Most students work as waiters or barman or are store assistants, for example, before they can look for a job in the industry they’re interested in. The point is, make some cash of your own. Being financially independent to some degree is really important. Another way to become a little more independent is to get yourself a car. I know it’s not always easy if you’re not earning much, but places like CarZar have affordable options. This will ensure you’re not relying on everyone else to get around and will give you the motivation you need to attend varsity or get to work.
Do more of what makes you happy
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Do things that make you happy. Considering exploring a new hobby, even if it’s not what your friends and family may be interested in but something you might find you has a talent for and you just love doing. When you have a new interest, it will give you confidence and teach you to be patient, it will relax you mentally and open your mind up to new creative ideas. Get in touch with nature, go out for walks on the beach, hikes up the mountains or beautiful forests, maybe go fishing in a river or take a stroll through art galleries that will inspire your creative side. Nature has a way of teaching you to appreciate and be grateful for what you have. It’s okay to even be a little silly sometimes, do things out of the ordinary that would just give you that feeling of freedom.
Save!
Save, save, save, even if it’s a small amount each month. Put that little bit aside and by the end of the year, you will be surprised by just how much you have managed to save. You might be saving towards the deposit on a car that you have been looking at, a deposit on a house, a future holiday, or just a little adventure – but whatever it is, put something away each month. It might be a good idea to open a separate bank account that gives you a good interest so that you don’t end up spending it by the end of the month.
Exercise
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Exercise is a wonderful way to ease the stresses of adult life – which we are still trying to navigate in our early 20’s. More about how to cope with stress and anxiety you can read at personaldevelopfit.com. A healthy body means a healthy mind, and with too many people suffering from mental illness today, it’s essential you look after your mind and invest in things that will improve your well-being. Not only do we end up with a good healthy body when we exercise regularly, but we also boost our confidence when we are looking good and feeling good about ourselves. Most people today will find the time to invest in a good exercise program as they know the value in it.
Be Kind to yourself
Be gentle on yourself, give yourself enough time, and reward yourself for your achievements even if it’s just to get an extra size burger, that’s okay. We are often kinder to others than we ever are to ourselves. Don’t look at what others have received or achieved, stay focused on you and your path, never compare yourself to those around you. Staying on your own path will lead you to new adventures, and if you are worried that you are not where you think you should be, life has a way of eventually leading you to exactly where you are meant to be.
