Taking a Breather: The Importance of Enjoying Now

"Why write this? We’re supposed to embrace hustle culture, right? Everything is costly, and we barely have time to unwind."

I do believe in working hard for our goals, but I reject the notion of hustle culture. There was a time when I poured my energy into achieving minor objectives, only to realize that the struggle was not worth it. I found myself in a constant chase for more, forgetting to appreciate what I already possessed.

Pause for a moment, breathe, and recognize that you’re making progress, even if your goals feel distant. Don’t overlook the importance of gratitude!

Understanding Your Own Timeline

Who established the benchmarks of success, such as earning a specific income by 25 or marrying by the same age? Life does not come to a standstill at 25.

I want to remind you that if you manage your time wisely, there’s still ample opportunity ahead. In a society that often equates success with social media portrayals, we must remember that we are unaware of the full stories behind others' lives.

Stop measuring your journey against someone else’s; embrace your personal timeline.

The Nature of Happiness

I wish for daily happiness, but it would be unrealistic to expect it all the time. Many can relate to the emotional rollercoaster of feeling elated one day and downcast the next.

Emotions like happiness, sadness, anger, and fear are part of the human experience. While we can strive to manage them, it’s vital to accept that we cannot be happy all the time. Embrace every emotion you encounter. Each feeling serves a purpose; when happy, express gratitude, and when sad, allow yourself to process those feelings.

Friendships Evolve

In my journey, I've experienced a shift in friendships. Where I once had a broad circle, I now have a few trustworthy companions.

While companionship can bring comfort, it’s essential to recognize that not all social groups foster our true selves. I learned this the hard way by trying to fit in with individuals who didn’t align with my values. After a significant incident, I chose to distance myself, reclaiming my authenticity.

In adulthood, it's natural to lose connections due to various life circumstances. I’ve come to terms with solitude, knowing I won’t compromise my true self for the sake of social acceptance.

Embracing Individuality

I once yearned for universal approval, questioning myself when faced with disapproval. However, I learned that others’ opinions are beyond my control.

The constant pursuit of perfection to appease everyone drained me. Now, I've adopted a more carefree approach, focusing on my own feelings rather than seeking validation. It’s perfectly acceptable not to resonate with everyone; the reality is that some will always disapprove, regardless of our efforts.

As you conclude this read, remember that every individual’s journey through their 20s is distinct. These reflections are based on my experiences, and while they may not mirror yours, I hope you find valuable insights within them.

Thank you for your time, and may you enjoy your day!

The second video, "5 Things I Wish I Knew At 20," further explores the invaluable lessons learned during this transformative decade.