Optimizing Your 20s: A Journey to Success Through Education and Self-Improvement

As the saying goes, the 20s tend to be a wasted decade for many, but choosing to waste your 20s isn't necessarily the most astute move. Two books that have had a significant impact on my life are Tom Corley’s Rich Habits and Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad. These books highlighted the importance of daily habits in shaping one's future success. It is important not to beat yourself up, as you are still young and have ample opportunities to turn things around.

Consider the so-called 'wasting the first half of your 20s' as a huge part of your education — education that you won't get from the classroom. No one is in a position to help you plan how to be successful or at least functional, as success varies from person to person. My only advice regarding the topic is to set your own standards. Embrace your unique path and use it to define your own success.

Choosing a Unique Path

Choose a unique and fulfilling path of your own making. For me, I may be perceived as a "hippie-bohemian type" due to my artistic nature. I chose not to finish college and opted for a 18-month Career Diploma program. Following this, I immersed myself in self-education through reading an extensive amount of books. By the time I was 38, I hadn’t gone through life ticking off common milestones such as university graduation, well-paying job, marriage, or having kids. Instead, I achieved a range of accomplishments including:

Savings account and investments Moderation of two blogs and websites Learning to play the piano at the age of 27, a skill most adults my age struggle to maintain Engaging in calisthenics and yoga Establishing a home-based business Creating numerous drawings and paintings Becoming a multi-awarded freelance writer/proofreader Improving my health and maintaining control over conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome, hypertension, and bipolar disorder

These experiences show that success and fulfillment come in many forms and that you must define what success means for you based on your own values and aspirations.

Strategies to Achieve Success

Journaling for Goal Setting

A feasible step for you is to journal. Write down three to five goals you would like to achieve within the next three to six months. Ensure that these goals are reasonably challenging and can motivate you. This practice will help you stay focused and motivated on your path to success.

Vision Boards for Visualizing Success

Alternatively, you can create a vision board to visualize your goals and aspirations. Gathering materials like old magazines, catalogs, and print ads, you can start by clipping photos of items that represent your goals. Place these in a way that inspires you to achieve them. Remember to align your goals with your values and purpose. In my 20s, I focused on financial stability and self-sufficiency rather than just making a lot of money. However, I also prioritized leading a balanced life without constant worry.

I became a master at budgeting, planning ahead, and looking for bargains. By balancing freelance writing and editing with running a small business, I made sure to set aside a portion of my earnings for savings. Over time, I learned to differentiate between what was important and what was not for my personal well-being. In uncertain times, activities like virtual volunteering can be a great way to give back while maintaining safety.

Continual Self-Improvement

Continual self-improvement is key to achieving your goals. Good conversational skills, negotiation techniques, and effective financial management are critical. Take time to exercise, eat well, and engage in hobbies that bring you joy. Use books and online resources to improve your skills and knowledge.

By embracing a unique path, setting meaningful goals, and continually working towards self-improvement, you can make the most of your 20s and emerge as a successful individual.