Being 20 is a strange age... not quite a full adult and definitely not a child, caught somewhere in between college and the 'real world.' Twenty can be a complicated time, trying to find the balance between fun and responsibility while trying to answer one question: Who am I?
1. You don't have to have it all figured out
What do I do after college? How do I get a good internship? What do I want to do with my life?
What do Tina Fey, Steve Jobs, Henry Ford, Walt Disney and J.K. Rowling all have in common? They didn't have life figured out by 20 either.
2. Ask for help
This is one of the hardest, but most valuable lessons to learn as a 20-year-old. Asking for help does not make you weak.
3. Stand up for yourself
Not a kid, not quite an adult, some people might not respect your opinions. Don't let others write you off because you're young. Stick up for your beliefs.
4. Leave people behind
Say goodbye to the people who don't make you better. Say goodbye to the people you're holding onto simply for the sake of holding on. You'll be better off in the long run.
5. Make a budget
Make it realistic and something you can live with, but make sure to follow it.
6. You don't have to find "The One"
Dating as a 20-year-old fits into two categories: casual and serious relationship. Trying to find 'The One' adds a tremendous amount of pressure to a relationship, and it's OK if you don't fit into either category.
7. Workout
30 minutes a day will go a long way to keep you healthy. Try to make it into a habit. Whether it be jogging, zumba, or jumping jacks, get active.
8. You can still call your mom
Sometimes, all you need is your mom telling you everything will work out and that she loves you. And remember, she was 20 once too.
9. Get out and see the world
Experience other cultures and people and learn about the world you live in while you have the opportunity.
10. Learn how to be alone
Learn how to zip up your dress by yourself, or tie your tie without help, because one day you could be living on your own. Be an independent individual.
11. Broken hearts heal
Broken hearts hurt, but with patience, a little time, and a someone to lean on, they will heal.
12. Do something that scares you
Get out of your comfort zone, and you'll surprise yourself.
13. Spend money on experiences, not possessions
Collect memories instead of objects. Wait a week before you buy to see if you still want it.
14. Failure is OK
Failing can help you figure out what you want from life. It shows you took a risk, so take this failure and learn from it.
15. Read more for fun
If you're swamped with school or work or relationships, read an old favorite book for a brief escape.
16. Everyone is scared
Here's a secret: no one really knows what the next move is, and they're all freaked out too.
17. Be confident
Even if you're nervous or embarrassed, fake it 'til you make it. Confidence goes a long way in interviews, college and even relationships.
18. It's OK to put yourself first
Twenty is a time to be selfish. How else can you figure out who you are and what you want?
19. The world is much bigger than college
Countless people, places and experiences exist outside the small bubble of college. Don't forget to look beyond the narrow scope of your university.
20. Follow your passion
If you found something you love, do everything you can to follow it. Greatness is inspired by passion.
