Twenty-fun, twenty-you, twenty-me, and so on... these are the give and take years. We're supposed to do this, but not mess up that. We have to follow these rules, but can't break those. It's stressful and it's complicated and sometimes contradictory, but staying within the designated guidelines can help you grow into a great person. Abiding by these suggestions can push you towards higher levels of maturity and success. Here are the do's and dont's that every 20-something year old should follow:

DO make mistakes; DON'T make the same mistake twice.

We're human, and mess ups are inevitable. What can be preventable, however, is making the same exact mistake twice. Learn from the first round to improve your second time.

DO make bold moves; DON'T regret the chances you take.

Don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Don't be ashamed if it doesn't go as planned.

DO listen to your heart; DON'T be foolish.

Your heart might know the answers, but don't rule out your head's thoughts.

DO surround yourself with people; DON'T depend on others.

Enjoy the company of others, but feel comfortable being independent.

DO learn; DON'T assume.

Explore the world surrounding you to discover more. You know what they say when you make assumptions...

DO splurge your money; DON'T waste all of it on nonsense.

How can you enjoy what you worked so hard for when it's sitting in the bank?

DO be a leader; DON'T be a follower.

Set your own examples to inspire and guide.

DO reminisce; DON'T get stuck in the past.

Memories are nice, but there's a lot more waiting for you in the future than what you've left behind.

DO keep busy; DON'T forget to relax.

Everyone deserves a break from time to time.

DO have fun; DON'T be irresponsible.

Have the freedom to go wild, but know when enough is enough.

DO laugh; DON'T hold back tears.

(In the appropriate situations).

DO speak your opinion; DON'T be rude.

Stand up for your thoughts and feelings without being insensitive to others.

DO compromise; DON'T be a pushover.

You're way too old to be walked all over.

DO take care of your body; DON'T unhealthily obsess over your weight.

Too much of something is never good. Practice moderation.

DO be brave; DON'T be careless.

Be courageous, but sensible.

DO be kind to all; DON'T expect others to reciprocate the kindness.

You'd be silly to think that everyone has a heart like yours, but this does not give you the right to be cold.

DO rely on yourself; DON'T be afraid to ask for help.

Be self-sufficient, but never embarrassed to admit you need a hand. Team work makes the dream work.

DO love hard; DON'T let a few bad experiences end your romantic career.

Put your heart out there or remain lonely forever. It's bound to go right one of these times.

DO trust; DON'T let your guard down.

There's an important difference between the two.

Lastly...

DO reach for the moon; DON'T be disappointed if you land amongst the stars.

You're only 20-something and you're doing the best that you can. Keep on keepin' on. Thirty will be here before you know it...