Your 20s are a great decade to explore and experiment with different opportunities. You should also invest in your 20s to build a success for yourself. This is how
The words of billionaire and co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates couldn’t echo this feature better. “If you are born poor, it’s not your fault. But if you die poor, it’s your fault.” Since success means different things to everyone, you have to define what it means to you and navigate your way to it. Your 20s are a foundation to your future and what better way to use the energy and strength you have now to build the life and legacy you want to be remembered for? Here are seven ways, even I am practicing to build the success I want to enjoy later in life:
Choose your friends wisely: You are the company you keep and if success is what you want, then it’s wise to hang around people who bring out the best in you and challenge you to chase after your dreams. The people you choose to be in your life are a reflection of who you believe yourself to be, so get rid of toxic people and surround yourself with positive friends.
Make investment a part of your financial habit: Most music videos and to an extent social media make slurging and wasting money look glamorous. While it’s okay to reward yourself for your hard work every once in a while, reward your future self by saving and investing a portion of your salary or profit. Speak to an accredited financial adviser your your bank about investment options, while time is on your side.
Further your skills: Don’t stop learning. If your qualification is gathering dust, it’s time to further your skills through short courses. There are affordable, and even free online courses you can take. Also, make reading your habit, there are biographies and self-help books that you can learn from. I am currently reading Shoe Dog by Nike founder, Phil Knight.
Embrace failure and your mistakes: Many people are afraid of trying because they are afraid of failing and being mocked by others. As people we are bound to fall and make mistakes. I love one person’s definition of success, which is: success is the accumulation of many failures. No one has it easy nor gets it right the first time. Forgive yourself, be kinder to yourself and take each day as a clean slate. Importantly, don’t stop challenging yourself or give up on your dreams. Things are bound to work out if you persist.
READ MORE: 5 Things To Do For Your Career In Your 20s
Take good care of yourself: As, Beyonce says, “We like to party!” and it’s great to have fun, but remember to take good care of your body. Working hard and turning up harder should be balanced with good amount of sleep, a healthier diet and exercise.
Don’t compare your shortcomings to other people’s successes: This was a big mistake I used to do a lot and it really harmed my self-esteem. Comparing yourself to others can be harmful, especially when you feel like you are not getting anywhere in life. Instead of allowing negative emotions to creep up when you see your peers doing well rather learn from them and focus on your lane.
Get a mentor: Many successful people credit a part of their success to having mentors. A mentor shouldn’t be confused with a spoon feeder, but they should be someone who can offer advise and referrals where possible. You can also learn from your role models through their biographies instead of face to face.
