In honor of turning 20 this week, I decided to write this week's article on everything I aspire to do by the time I'm 30 years old. People say that your 20s are the best and worst times of your life. I'm sure there will be plenty of bumps in the road, but at least once I'm 30 I can look back and read this article again in hopes that I at least got most of these things done.
1. Travel
I've always been a sucker for a good story, and what better story to tell than one about an adventurous trip to a foreign city or country? I would love to see how many places I will be able to go in my 20s before I settle down and have a family.
2. Make Mistakes
I know that most people might wonder why I would even put this one on my list, but aren't your 20s just the perfect time to make mistakes? How are you going to be all wise in your 30s if you can't make mistakes and learn from them in your 20s? I want to make the most out of this life because it's the only one I've had. How can I do that without making a couple of mistakes along the way?
3. Live in a Big City
Okay, I know that everyone says that they want to do this one. The majority of us won't, because of the expenses, fear of the unknown, and so many other factors that could be running through a young person's mind. I promise you though, I will not live in a suburb in my 20s. What other time to live in a big city than your 20s? If I don't do it then, I don't think I ever will. Most people don't want to move to the city when settling down, which is why I want to have fun while I'm still unattached to so many obligations and responsibilities.
4. Build a Stable Career for Myself
If I'm going to live in a big city, I'll need some money to back myself up. I promise you, I will be ambitious, persistent, and I will not give up on my dreams. I will find room for myself and always put my dreams first. Many might say this is selfish, but your 20s are a time to be selfish. There should be no reason to apologize for loving yourself more than anyone else.
5. Explore What Scares Me
Your 20s can be a really scary time in your life. Some people search for a career, a family, the love of their life, and themselves all at the same time. The best part about your 20s though is that you have so little at stake. I don't have a child, a husband, or anyone really to care for, so I can explore these fears with playful curiosity. You better bet I'll be unafraid to try new things.
6. Literally Have No Filter for Once
Sometimes, standing up for what you believe in can be hard. But, in your 20s, it is so important to begin to know what it is that's worth fighting for. By the time I'm 30, I will learn what it's like to not have people walk all over me.
7. Have a Detailed Idea of My Family History
By the time you're 20, your aunts, uncles, grandmothers, and grandfathers are all 20 years older than when you were first born. It is important to know all of the stories that took place before you were around. Whether it be the funny, lighthearted ones, or the scary and uncomfortable ones, these stories are so important in finding yourself. I mean most of the time, the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree.
8. Help Those Who Need Me
I want my friends to know that I'll be there for them through every 4am phone call or knock at the door. Being needed is one of the greatest things you can feel as a human being, and that should include being needed even when it isn't convenient for you. How can you expect to have great friends if you don't pay your dues first?
9. Donate Time and/or Money to Charity
I've always loved volunteering, but being a college student, I have very little time for it. I hope to spend more time helping others and volunteering my time in my 20s. I think that volunteer work can help you find what you're good at and uncover hidden passions you might've never found otherwise.
10. Babysit for Friends and Family With Open Arms
Caring for children has never really been my thing, but I think it's important to try and get familiar with the subject before you're 30. That way, if you turn 30 and decide you want to have kids, you will be a little more prepared and a lot more educated.
I've heard that being in your 20s can be one of the greatest times of your life. Cheers to a (hopefully) wonderful 20th year of living!
