Life consists of numerous phases. From the time we're born to the time we're on our deathbeds, it can be described as a "blink" of an eye. Every stage is special to its own meaning. Since birth, a newborn represents a sense of something special and optimistic, both for its caregivers and the world at hand. During childhood, the energy, imagination, and inspiration given off by these young souls illustrate their naivety and innocence. As we begin to grow older and enter adolescence, we strive to adjust ourselves to the norms of society, fitting in, and dealing with principles of ingenuity and passion. As time progresses, the entrance into adulthood marks one of the greatest periods of our lives.
Your twenties, otherwise classified as early adulthood, is the only real time of your life. It's the only few years that are entirely yours. For a majority of us, this is the time when the only responsibility we have is to ourselves. Sure, there's responsibilities to fulfill, classes to attend, shifts at work to cover, student loans to pay, or even rent and utilities to cover too. But for a moment, put that all aside. Whatever you're doing is for YOU. Many of us may not have children to look after or a spouse to attend to. We may not have other responsibilities, such as providing for a family and ensuring there's a roof over their head and food on the table. This is the prime time of discovery, the prime time of making our mark on the world. All of us have a passion of some kind within us - whether it be starting a new band, becoming famous, or serving the world through humanitarian services, there's this flame of passion within each and every one of us that is dying to be fulfilled. Is there a goal you want to achieve? Something you've always wanted to do but were too afraid of its outcome? Too scared to think what would happen because you don't have a "plan"? Take a step back - this is your own time. It's the only time span in life, the only years where making a mistake is OK. Risk-taking is perfectly fine, even though it's not encouraged by societal norms. What's going to happen if your life dreams and goals don't turn out as planned? At least you tried. That's all that matters. At least you tried pursuing your dreams and weren't stopped by societal expectations, familial limitations, or most importantly, the doubtful voice within yourself.
Sure, you can still pursue your goals in the later phases of adulthood. You can still change career paths after you're married, settled and have had children. You can still follow your dreams and passions in your 30's and 40's. There's nothing wrong with that. But there's something special about your twenties. The passion. The zeal. The burning flames of risk-taking and adventure-pursuance. A time where there are days with no worries except for turning in an assignment that will have no value 15 years from now. This time is absolutely special. Absolutely amazing.
So go out there. Go out there and start the business you've always wanted to. Pursue the political route you've always desired. Enroll in the graduate program you've doubted you would be accepted into. So what if it doesn't turn out as planned? At least you can continue throughout life knowing that you've tried. Avail this four to five year time span. It'll be over before you know it.
