Wish I Could: Lessons from My 20s for a Better Future

Life is a complex journey filled with choices, some of which shape our future in unforeseen ways. As a 27-year-old reflecting on my twenties, I've identified several areas where I could have made different decisions. These lessons serve as valuable insights for anyone navigating their early adult years. Let’s delve into what I wish I did or could have done differently in my 20s.

Education and Career

Attending school and college at the right age was a wise decision. Starting my first job at the age of 19 and pursuing higher technical qualifications at 20 were crucial steps in my career journey. However, there were a few opportunities I missed. For example, back then, I focused too much on academic achievements and less on traveling or personal relationships. Travel is a great way to gain different perspectives and enhance your life experience. Early in my 20s, I missed out on this aspect, an opportunity that would have brought enrichment and personal growth.

Financial Planning

Another area I could have improved was financial planning. Having an IRA or 401k from an early age would have set me on a path to financial security. Although buying my first home at 24 was a smart move, I did not properly budget for travel and other expenses. Today, I often look back and wish I could have traveled more and lived a more extravagant lifestyle. But alas, the value of savings compounds, and the earlier you start, the better off you will be in the long run.

Relationships and Personal Connections

Reflecting on my social life in the 20s, I realize I could have struck a better balance between work and personal relationships. Joining social groups, making more friends, and engaging in various activities could have broadened my network and added more depth to my life. For instance, playing track and cross-country sports, playing volleyball, and tennis were great physical activities, but I could have been more involved in social outings and gatherings.

Work and Career Satisfaction

At 26, I worked in Singapore as a System Engineer, a job that was right for me. However, I could have explored more options earlier. For instance, I missed the opportunity to stay at my first job with the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) and avoid the constant job hunting. It's essential to find a balance between career satisfaction and stability. At 27, I am currently unemployed for six months, which could have been avoided if I had settled earlier in the right job.

Adapting to Change

As societal norms evolve, it's crucial to adapt to change. Today, society is more accepting of casual relationships, especially among friends. For someone like me, who viewed such relationships as cheating or even adultery, it would have been beneficial to take a more open-minded approach. This would have led to more meaningful connections and a richer social life. Additionally, I could have embraced my true self more confidently, whether it was being an "old school" guy or asserting my personality in social settings.

Conclusion

Reflecting on my 20s, I realize that while I achieved many of the things I aimed for, there were opportunities I missed. Time is a precious resource, and making the most of it requires thoughtful planning and proactive decisions. Moving forward, I plan to focus on financial stability, building strong relationships, and embracing change. The path to a fulfilling life is shaped by our choices, and learning from past mistakes is instrumental in making informed decisions in the future. Here’s to better days ahead!