FollowWhen I look back at my 20s, I sometimes smile, sometimes cringe, and sometimes wonder how I managed to navigate life with so little sleep and so much energy. This was how I got four promotions in a span of 8 years when I worked in a bank, on top of the yearly Merit Increments and Merit Awards, before moving on to be a PA to a distinguished Dato’.
If I could sit down with my younger self today, I’d probably give her a cup of coffee, a hug, and a long list of things I’ve since learned the hard way.
Here are a few things I WISH I had known back then:
1. Rest is not laziness.
In my 20s, I thought being busy meant being productive. Now I know that rest is a form of strength — not a sign of weakness. A well-rested mind makes better decisions than a stressed one ever could.
2. It’s okay to change your mind.
VERY IMPORTANT! What you want in your 20s doesn’t have to be what you want in your 30s, 40s, or 50s. Life is fluid, and so are you. Changing directions doesn’t mean you’re lost — it often means you’ve finally found clarity. Do not be afraid to change your mind or path when the current one doesn’t seem right.
3. Not every argument is worth winning.
I used to think winning meant proving a point. Today, I understand that peace is often more valuable than being “right.” Sometimes silence is the strongest answer. Yes, silence can even drive some people whom you dislike crazy 😜
4. You can start over at any age.
The idea that life has timelines is one of the biggest lies we grew up believing. Careers, hobbies, dreams — you can pick them up, put them down, and restart them whenever you choose.
5. Take care of your body early.
A 20-year-old body forgives a lot, but a 40- or 50-year-old body remembers everything. Hydrate, stretch, move, and treat your joints kindly. They’re the only ones you’ll ever get. I now get achy knees if I climb 5 flights of stairs for three days straight, OUCH!
6. Friendships evolve — and that’s normal.
Some friends stay for a season, some for a lifetime. People grow, paths diverge, and that’s part of being human. Cherish those who remain, and wish the others well.
7. Don’t rush to please everyone.
You are not a 24-hour convenience store. It’s okay to have boundaries. It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to prioritize yourself.
8. Small joys matter more than you think.
A good meal, a quiet stroll outside in the evening, a shopping trip to splurge on things to make you happy, a comfortable bed — these little things carry more weight in happiness than grand achievements sometimes do. Appreciate them early.
9. Invest in experiences, not just things.
The memories you make will outlast the shoes and bags you buy. Travel when you can, try new foods, learn skills, and soak up moments. Experiences shape your life in ways objects never will. I am thankful that I travelled to several countries with my mum and papa when we were all younger.
10. You don’t need to have everything figured out.
No one does. Even adults who look put-together are probably winging it half the time. Life unfolds one choice at a time, and that’s perfectly enough.
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