Hitting your twenties often come with an invincibility that comes from increased freedom and financial independence. Independence can be liberating but the responsibilities that come with navigating the transition from adolescence to adulthood can be scary. This is why you need career advice.
Everything seems surmountable, especially in your career, and relationships, and that’s because the weight & responsibilities haven’t yet begun to take their toll. It is a given that our paths cannot all lead to the same end, but there are some universal guidelines/career advice that can help make your 20’s way more productive and fulfilling.
Pursue your passion
This might be a cliche, but cliches work, that’s why they persist. While it is important to use your 20’s to build the foundations of the career and future you want for yourself, but it’s still crucial to make it time to pursue your special interests and devote time to causes you are passionate about. Take your time to figure it out, because dissatisfaction and a lack of motivation can create a subpar life which will lead to discontent.
Invest in yourself
Investments don’t only apply in securing assets & profits. Life skills and social skills are essential to creating the life of your dreams. Your 20s are an excellent time to invest in yourself. Start businesses, take courses, attend conferences and network with professionals in your field. Listen to as much career advice as possible, discard what doesn’t work for you and apply what does. Learn as much as you can about your industry and stay up to date with the latest trends. Invest in your education, whether that means going back to school or taking online courses. Remember that investing in yourself is a long-term gamble that will lead to significant career growth.
Socialize
Making lifelong friendships & partnerships will help you weather the seasons of self doubt, widen your professional network and significantly improve your mental health. It is important you start this in your 20’s because the older you get, the harder it becomes to make and sustain friendships.
Your 20’s are the time to build your friendship circle. Socialize with people with the same interests, age groups, and professional paths. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people you admire in your field and ask for advice.
Take risks
Caveat: well-calculated risks. In your 20s you have the time and adaptability to experiment and reinvent yourself. Infact your 20’s are when you have the flexibility to chase 2-3 different career paths whilst trying to figure out what you’re passionate about.
Don’t be afraid to fail. Treat failure as a learning opportunity and use it to grow and develop. Be open to new opportunities and be willing to learn new skills. Adaptability is a valuable trait that can help you succeed in any industry.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Contrary to what you might think, asking for help doesn’t mean you’re incompetent. So as you navigate your career, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you feel uneasy, at loss, it’s important not to stay feeling overwhelmed but reach out and seek advice from friends, colleagues, mentors, and industry professionals. Remember that no one has all the answers, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.
In conclusion, your 20s give you sometime to explore, both personally and professionally. It might seem that everyone’s doing well but you, it’s very important you get out of that comparison trap and seek clarity for your life and when you achieve it, pursue it without reservations.
