Leading a successful life often comes down to understanding the constraints of the season you’re in and moving deliberately forward. The tricky part is that during early adulthood, we often haven’t developed the wisdom or experience to recognize “normal” challenges or identify pathways to overcome them.
As we move through our 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond, it’s helpful to look back, identify lessons learned, and apply them forward.
If I had the opportunity to give my 20-something self advice, here’s what I’d tell her:
- Most of what you’re worrying about won’t matter, and you’ll barely remember it in five years.
- Don’t wait to feel ready. Confidence comes after you act, not before.
- Take care of your body now. It’s easier to maintain than to rebuild.
- The people you spend time with shape you more than almost anything else. Choose carefully.
- Rejection and failure sting less than the regret of never trying.
- Money habits compound; saving and investing small amounts early beats scrambling later.
- Your parents won’t always be around. Call them. Ask the questions you’re curious about.
- Comparison is a trap; everyone curates their own highlight reel.
- You don’t have to have it all figured out. Almost no one does at 20, 40, or perhaps even 70.
- Be a little braver, a little kinder, and a little more patient with yourself.
Our younger selves likely tended to overestimate short-term stakes and underestimate the long-term compounding effects of habits, relationships, health, and money. Most of us have decades of runway ahead. That makes the guidance we’d share with our younger selves quite relevant today. Embrace the opportunity to look back and clarify your path forward.
Founded in 2004, Lead Star is the company behind the best-selling books SPARK, Leading from the Front, and Bet on You. Lead Star helps professionals reach new levels of success through its innovative leadership development programs.
