I’m not sure how many of you have done this, but throughout my life, I’ve always imagined what I would be like at a certain age. And once I’d actually reach that age, it was never like I imagined it would be, which is not necessarily a bad thing. The thing is, now that I am in my thirties, I don’t exactly feel like I am a totally different person than I was at 25. I’m just a little older, and little wiser, but I’m pretty much the same, with all my flaws and insecurities. However, what’s different is that I’ve learned to appreciate myself for who I am.

It seems so simple now, but several years ago, it was a code I couldn’t crack. I wish I had done some things differently, which is why I am writing this article to my former self and to everyone else who is 25 right now. You are already a great person, but you just don’t know it yet. Here are 10 things I wish I knew when I was 25.

1. Stop Worrying about What Other People Think of You

This is probably one of the biggest problems you will face when you are 25. You are an adult person, so why do you worry about the opinions of others? Now, this doesn’t mean you should ignore everyone and do stupid things. But don’t hang onto their praise, respect, and validation, because you don’t need it. Every person forms an opinion based on their own life experiences and the way they perceive the world around them, and so should you. After all, it’s your life.

2. Some of Your Plans Will Fall Through – and That’s OK!

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, your best-laid plans will not materialize, but that’s fine because you can’t control everything. There will always be external factors, circumstances, or even people, that will get in your way. But, that just means you will have to choose a different road in order to reach your destination. Or you will simply change your destination and find out that it’s much better than your old one, even if it didn’t seem like it at first.

3. Live in the Moment

While you are busy making those huge plans, don’t let life pass you by. Make the most of each day, no matter how crappy it seems, because there is always something good about it you can take away and remember later. And don’t put off doing things. If you can do something today, then do it. All of these decisions, choices, and actions are what make up the fabric of your tomorrow. So make them count.

4. Learn to Let Things Go

I have to admit, back when I was younger, I didn’t shy away from getting into arguments and conflicts when I believed I was absolutely right. But these days, every fight, every argument, and every conflict will eat away at me, regardless of being right or wrong in the end. Trust me, it’s way better to let go of those things and live your life, instead of thinking about the past. All those failed expectations, disappointments, regrets, anger, envy, and hate are just a burden.

5. Hard Work Will Pay Off

There is no such thing as an overnight success because you never get to hear the full story, involving all the ups and downs. Everything worthwhile requires time, patience, dedication, and hard work. Like those endless nights of cramming, so you can get a college degree and find a job that pays well. We live in an age where instant gratification is everything, and while it may feel good at times, it’s not something that will produce results in the long run.

6. Have Faith in Yourself

Having faith in your skills, talent, and abilities is crucial because that’s what will always drive you to try new things. And the reason why are unsure of ourselves and why we are afraid to try is faliure. We are scared of failing and scared of trying, because of failures in the past. But, making mistakes is all a part of growing up, and getting where you want to go. Stop doubting yourself.

7. Stand Up for Yourself

I know I’ve said that you should let go off conflicts and arguments, but you will also find that life is not fair. In fact, it can be pretty brutal and unjust, which is why you need to fight and stand up for yourself. Don’t compromise your integrity, even if it means you will be unpopular. This also means standing up to authority figures, such as your boss, if they are out of line. You might lose your job, but it’s not your job to be someone’s doormat.

8. Learn to Save Money

You don’t need to become Ebenezer Scrooge, but you should learn how to be smart about money. You don’t have to start saving up for your retirement just yet, but you also don’t have to spend it on every pointless gadget and fad that comes along every 15 minutes. Put aside some amount each month and spend it on something that has some real worth.

9. Take Care of Your Health

I know, when you are 25, you feel as if you’re immortal, but pretty soon, your body will start breaking down, unless you begin to take better care of it. Sure, you may still enter a beer-chugging or chili eating competition, but unlike before, it will now come back to haunt you. You will also gain weight more easily since your metabolism will slow down. Give it a boost by exercising regularly.

10. Spend Time with Your Loved Ones

Whether it’s your family, friends, or your partner, make sure to set aside enough time inside the day for them, because they are the ones who love you unconditionally, and who will support you no matter what. You don’t want to look back one day and regret not spending enough with them, just because you were busy building your career. 

At 25, you are your own person, yet you are young enough to still have fun and make plans. It should be the best period of your life. And it will be if you keep these 10 tips in mind whenever you start doubting yourself. Follow your dreams and good luck!

10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was 25
Julie Petersen

About the Author 

Julie Petersen is a writer and a blogger at NinjaEssays.com. Her passion is sharing self-improvement and educational tips to help people live their lives to the fullest.