As I approach the big 3-0, I can’t help but reflect on my vibrant 20s. What a wild ride it’s been! I’ve noticed a trend: I’m becoming a bit more settled, busier, and yet somehow just as fabulous as ever. With newfound confidence and happiness, I’m gearing up for the next decade, which many say is the tough one. Here’s what I’ve learned over the past ten years that will help me navigate the next chapter.
1. Homeownership Costs More Than You Think
Let’s be real—buying a house is pricey. It’s not just the mortgage that drains your wallet. There are countless things that can break and need fixing. Think about calling in a pro who charges $100 an hour, and suddenly that leaky faucet doesn’t seem so cute anymore!
2. Friends Are Often Neighbors
As adulthood kicks in, maintaining friendships can be tricky, especially with those who live far away. You tend to bond more with neighbors, coworkers, and parents of your kids’ friends. While I still treasure my old friends, proximity makes a huge difference when it comes to spending time together.
3. Partying Takes a New Form
In college, partying meant hitting multiple spots in one night and waking up with a questionable food combo in my stomach. Nowadays, my idea of a wild night includes cooking dinner for friends, sipping wine, or maybe even playing a board game. By midnight, I’m out like a light, dreaming of the days when I could pull an all-nighter!
4. Someone Is Always Watching You
When you’re young, you often look for role models. What you may not realize is that there’s always someone looking up to you, whether it’s a new coworker or your own kids. It’s a reminder that setting a good example is important, as you never know who’s learning from your journey.
5. Exercise Is More Important Than Ever
Let’s face it: metabolism has a way of slowing down as we age. Those late-night fast food runs seem to linger a bit longer now. It’s crucial to stay active and eat well, or those jeans will start to feel tighter than ever (cue the panic!).
6. Acne and Wrinkles Can Coexist
Oh, the joys of adult skin! If only I had known that I’d be juggling acne treatments with anti-aging creams. My morning routine has become a mini-ritual of face washes and lotions that would make your head spin—definitely not cheap!
7. Your Timeline Is Yours Alone
In school, you feel the pressure to stick to a schedule. Once you graduate, it’s liberating! Want to travel? Go for it! Thinking about grad school or starting a family? No rush, you set your own pace now. There’s no such thing as “too old” or “too young” anymore.
8. You Understand Your Limits
As you get older, you become more aware of what you can handle. Whether it’s the number of cocktails you can enjoy without regretting it or how many projects you can juggle at work, learning your limits is key—especially since pulling an all-nighter isn’t as easy as it used to be.
9. Chores Are Still Boring
Laundry still piles up, dust bunnies have a party in the corners, and the yard needs mowing. And if you have kids? Multiply all these chores by three! But hey, that’s why you had them, right? A little help never hurt!
10. You Don’t Have to Be “Ready”
Sometimes, opportunities come knocking when you least expect them. That dream job you’ve always wanted? Go for it! Want to start a family but feel unprepared? Guess what—no one is ever fully ready for parenthood, but we get nine months to figure it out. You’ve got this!
Your 20s are a whirlwind of self-discovery and growth. Now, as I say goodbye to this decade, I’m investing in some good eye cream and looking forward to what’s next. If you’re interested in fertility resources, check out this excellent article on pregnancy.
In summary, the lessons learned in your 20s shape the way you approach life’s next challenges. From understanding finances to nurturing friendships, this decade is all about growth and preparation for the future.