When I turned 20, I had an overwhelming feeling that I’m old and have yet to have done something significant with my life. While my life seems to exist around college and school, turning 20 has made me realize that these are the years I want to live as much as I can. This being the only time period in my life that I have few responsibilities and no restricting job. So, this is my list of 20 things to do in your 20’s.
1. See the world
If you haven’t traveled outside the country already, do it. There is still so much that we have to see and experience and going abroad brings a whole new perspective to the way other people live. Plus, you could never go wrong with the beautiful beaches, amazing history and out of this world food.
2. Read more books
Reading fuels the soul and expands your mind beyond its daily routine. Reading can offer you an escape from the everyday hectic life teach you something new or even inspire you. Nothing is more soothing than cuddling up with a good book.
3. Learn something new
Don’t be afraid to try something you’ve never tried before. It’s never too late to learn that your actually really good at surfing or that you love a certain type of food. Try to get yourself out of your comfort zone and try something you’ve always wanted to but maybe haven’t had the guts to.
4. Be open to making new friends and talking to strangers
Be willing to talk to the people that you’re sitting next to on a plane or in a class. You never know who you’ll meet.
5. Go outside more
Understand the value of getting outside and taking a run or a walk. Do this frequently and get a break from constantly staring at your phone or computer. Let yourself relax in the great outdoors.
6. Limit the amount of time on your phone.
Be present wherever you are and don’t let your phone hold you back from having a genuine conversation. Nothing is more important than face-to-face interaction.
7. Take more pictures
Capture pictures of things when you can. You’ll want these pictures later when your friends are getting married or just so you can look back and laugh.
8. Make time for everyone
Though this isn’t always possible, try your best to keep in contact with your friends and family. It's comforting having someone reach out to you and make sure you’re doing well or having someone there when you need it most.
9. Exercise and take care of yourself
Having fun is still important, but keeping yourself healthy is crucial for the long haul. Wear sunscreen, exercise, put down the Hot Cheetos and eat an apple every once in awhile.
10. Go to as many concerts as you can
Music unites people and concerts are always fun. Go with your friends, dance, meet people and just have carefree fun.
11. Move on from people who hold you back
Life’s too short to let stupid people keep you from being yourself or to discourage you from success. All that matters is if you put in the work it takes to get where you want, not what others think of you.
12. Get a dog or a pet
You may be living alone out of college, get a dog or something to keep you company. Plus, it’s good to know how to take care of something other than just you.
13. Take up a new hobby
Find an activity you enjoy and go for it, join a club and get involved. Maybe it’s hiking, knitting or playing guitar, it doesn’t matter just find something else you like to do that isn’t work.
14. Be informed
Keep yourself up to date on the world and politics. Though they suck and aren’t the same as watching “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” when policies that are being passed start to directly affect you it won’t be boring anymore.
15. Try not to worry so much
We get so consumed in school and our futures that we forget to take time for ourselves. Take a bath, take yourself out to lunch, just do whatever helps you relax. Because at this time in our lives we can direct our life however we want and aren’t stuck in a career yet.
16. Drink lots of wine
If all else fails, a wine night can heal almost anything. Don’t be afraid to drink when necessary.
17. Focus on yourself
Don’t add unnecessary stress over finding a significant other, who cares as long as your comfortable and confident all you need is you and some great friends.
18. Make Mistakes
Embrace every mistake you make, just learn how to not make it again. Use this as a stepping-stone in the right direction and understand mistakes promote growth.
19. Don’t burn bridges with the good ones
On the contrary, don’t hold a grudge and burn bridges with good friends. You never know when you’ll need them or how losing this friendship can affect you or them. Keep good company around, always.
20. Live how you want
Take risks when you want to and hold back when you want to, live life the way that’s the best fit for you and that’s all that will ever matter.
