What you should do at 20 to avoid regrets at 40

Learning from the experience of others is difficult: we all prefer to step on our own rake. And yet there are things that would be worth listening to, so that one day it would not become “excruciatingly painful for the aimlessly lived years.”

1. Remember that no one knows how to “should”

Even if someone’s life seems to be “perfect” and everything is going “just right” for him or her, we don’t really know what that person is going through, what he or she has to overcome and what to lose.

2. Get rid of unnecessary stress

Stress deprives us of strength and energy, drives us into a state of impasse, when it seems that there is no way out, negatively affects our health and relationships with others. Whatever you do, whatever your job, and whatever circumstances you face, look for ways to reduce stress and support yourself.

3. Work on your communication skills

You won’t believe how many people find it difficult to communicate with others. Many of us get lost in large companies, do not know how to present ourselves and our ideas, defend our point of view, make acquaintances. The harder you work on your communication skills, the easier it will be to achieve your goals.

4. Don’t be afraid to express emotions

Previous generations grew up with the mindset that showing emotion is a sign of weakness. This is not true. Sensitivity and even a certain degree of emotional vulnerability give us a chance to better know and understand ourselves, other people and the world around us. And the better we convey our emotions to others, the more likely they are to understand us correctly.

5. Don’t let fear win

The catch with fear is that sometimes it helps you avoid really dangerous situations, and sometimes it makes it impossible to try something new. The only way to figure this out is to listen to yourself and your instincts. And do not give up the chances that fall to your lot, even if the temptation is great to back down.

6. Don’t spend too much on daily needs

Perhaps living with your parents while saving on rent isn’t such a bad option, as you can save money for an education or a startup. And certainly, when making a decision on any purchase, you need to carefully weigh the pros and cons, not succumbing to a momentary impulse. There are many free ways to get positive emotions in life. It is important to learn to find them and enjoy every day.

7. Accept people for who they are and appreciate them.

Trying to change another person is a dead end idea: he will begin to change only if he himself matures, feels the need. Learn to accept others for who they are, and give them exactly what you can without sacrificing yourself and your interests. Do not seek to please someone: those who should be near will stay with you. At the same time, in any relationship, even friendships, you need to invest your time and effort. Help others and learn to accept their support.

8. Learn to communicate politely, whatever the subject of conversation

Taking it out on others, raising your voice and being rude is unacceptable, and it would be good to leave this manner of communication in adolescence. Learn to listen and hear what the interlocutor says, understand his motivation and state your desires and needs calmly and confidently, respectfully and politely.

9. Learn to love imperfection

The world is not perfect. And while we strive to change people and things around, our energy goes nowhere. Learn to appreciate the beauty of every moment, find the good in what surrounds you, and be content with your choice.

10. Don’t be afraid to end a relationship

As sad as it is to admit, not all relationships are “forever”. Even if you were inseparable with someone as a child, one of you or both of you may have changed, and perhaps you are no longer on the road. You should not cling to a person simply because you have known him for a hundred years. If communication is no longer fulfilling and does not bring joy, most likely it is time to say goodbye.

11. Pay attention to your body

It’s never too late to do this, and yet the sooner you start, the better. You will live with this body all your life, so do not treat it like a rented apartment or a rented car, which is a waste of money to maintain and repair. Learn to accept, love and support yourself, remember your goals and priorities, and appreciate life and those people who deserve it.

Leave a Reply