Five things people in their twenties always do.
#1 Click on any link, regardless of the source, that suggests it will help them make life decisions. Posts that start with ‘five things’ or something like that often work a treat.
You fell right into the trap. Truth is, I often do. It brings hope, doesn’t it? The prospect of reading something that will get you off the sofa, motivate you to say no to the next episode on Netflix, begin eating more avocado instead of super noodles…the list goes on.
I love that we are so keen to shout about our life experiences (no irony intended) in order to help others, but I want to make sure that when I click on endless links detailing how I can be successful or gain the freedom I truly desire, I do make that choice to get off my backside and do something about it.
Now that I’m writing I suppose I’ll just carry on in the same format.
#2 Chill out. As the picture says, you are most probably in a stage of life that means you have time to dedicate to building your career. Brainstorm your goals. Secondly, think about how they are going to be achieved and begin to think about timelines. Setting SMART goals (Google it) is often a great starting point. Devote time to working out what YOU want to do, rather than what BuzzFeed tells you to.
Sheryl Sandberg, an American technology executive, activist and author says:
“There is no perfect fit when you’re looking for the next big thing to do. You have to take opportunities and make an opportunity fit for you, rather than the other way around. The ability to learn is the most important quality a leader can have.”
― Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead.
#3 With this I’ll come to land. A lesson I’m still learning is to reject comparison. I believe it was Theodore Roosevelt that said ‘comparison is the thief of joy’ and it’s definitely true. Read my first article, The Quarter Life Crisis if you want to be encouraged that we all have a multitude of pathways before us. For some, your best ‘adulting’ day may involve successfully making a spag bol. It could be the wedding band you just booked for the big day. For others, you may learn about anatomy and how to effectively treat a patient. Perhaps you’re just genuinely thrilled that you got to see your best friend for a coffee. Whatever stage of life you’re in, remember that your age does not dictate the stage. Comparing yourself will only put you down.
Hopefully that’s settled your mind at ease a bit. If you, like me, still find entertainment in those self-help articles then go for it. Just remember to be a little bit selfish, get off the sofa and begin the adventure :)
Over and out.
