1. Own Your Independence – Truly.

I left home at 24, though I had hoped to do it by 20. If you're still at home by 30, that's fine too. What counts most is the effort and growth. Staying with family for too long might hinder some important lessons.

Moving out was one of my best decisions ever. People often ask, "Don't you miss your family?" It made me realize this feeling might be common among Italians. But let's be clear—leaving your family doesn't mean you love them any less.

It's all about growth, creating your own path, and working hard on your own terms. There's a special joy in pushing past your comfort zone and mastering independence.

2. Speak more languages

Speaking three languages – Italian, English, and Spanish – has greatly expanded my horizons, enabling me to delve deeper into diverse cultures and build meaningful connections. Embracing the beauty of languages unlocks a world of growth and understanding.

English has been the language I've been most eager to learn, while Spanish came naturally to me as I live in Spain. As an Italian, mastering English wasn't easy. But consider this: By the age of 30, reaching proficiency in English or other key languages relevant to your location or goals can propel you forward instead of holding you back.

Imagine yourself at 30, fluent in English. The competitive advantage and communication skills gained through multilingualism are invaluable assets. Today, effortlessly switching between Italian, Spanish, and English, I look back on the fulfilling journey of mastering these languages, an endeavor that has enriched my life immensely.

Note that it can be whatever anguage you choose, depending on where is you desidered area of interest.

3. Cultivate Rich Relationships and Build your Network

In your 20s, it's a time when building meaningful relationships holds more value than merely having a vast network of acquaintances. I've found it beneficial to maintain a contacts list on Notion, which helps me keep track of individuals who align with my aspirations and objectives.

Consider categorizing your contacts into different groups such as friends, professional connections, and close family members. You might also want to evaluate the frequency of meetings with certain contacts to ensure a balance in your interactions.

Taking the initiative to engage in conversations can be advantageous, and making thoughtful decisions can have a positive impact on your relationships. Cultivating a robust network of connections can potentially provide significant benefits in the long run.

Based on my personal experience, many individuals may seek your company, but not all engagements contribute to your professional growth or genuine friendships. Therefore, it's crucial to be mindful of how you allocate your time and energy during this formative period.

Furthermore, I've come to realize that people cannot be strictly categorized as 'good' or 'bad.' Problematic individuals are not limited to fictional characters in movies; at times, even those closest to you may unknowingly exhibit negative behaviors or attitudes that can affect your well-being. Being aware of such dynamics is essential for maintaining positive and enriching relationships as you navigate your way through your 20s.

4. Master Personal Finance

Knowing where your money goes is important. It helps you make smart choices for the future. I started tracking my spending in my 20s using Spendee. It helped me see not just how much, but where I was spending.

Details make a difference. For instance, I can see how much I spend on nights out, groceries, or daily expenses. This awareness can help you think twice before overspending.

Some say, "Enjoy now and worry later," but managing money wisely can lead to more freedom. When you know your finances, you're better prepared for what comes next.

Whether you're rich or poor, staying aware is what truly sets you apart.

5. Commit to Consistent Creation

Starting a project in your 20s? It could be anything: writing, crafting, painting, coding, or even cooking. The important part isn't what you're doing, but that you're doing it consistently. By consistently adding to your collection or portfolio, imagine how expansive it'll be by the time you're 30.

Every item or piece you add stands as a testament to your dedication. Sharing these on social media or other platforms lets others see your journey. Consistency helps not only in honing skills but also in building a tangible record of your efforts. By the end of the decade, you won't just have a hobby or a skill—you'll have a timeline of your growth and commitment.

Think about what you could do and, in these 10 years, keep creating and sharing. There isn't a single right answer. The key is to commit to creating consistently and see where this dedication takes you. Don't be afraid to show your evolution and your creations, even if they're not perfect. The crucial thing is the process and the journey you have embarked upon.

6. Strive for new Travel Experiences

Travel can be simple, whether it's a journey abroad or just exploring your city. It's about embracing new experiences, not necessarily about splurging. It's not about luxury hotels or perfect snapshots. Once, while in a small Spanish town for paperwork, instead of rushing through, I savored the local cuisine and wandered aimlessly. It was truly delightful. I've ventured to numerous places.

I believe in immersing oneself fully in a destination, beyond the touristy spots. Utilize your youth to the fullest by exploring and expanding your knowledge. There are myriad ways to travel, and in your twenties, it's time to wander. It doesn't require as much money as you might think. Of course, there's a cost, but consider that money is spent on far pricier items.

Travel, gain experiences, whether in good company or solo. It's time to broaden horizons and view the world through a different lens. There's a vast realm waiting to be explored out there.

7. Prioritize Continuous Learning

Traditional schooling is just one way to learn. Besides classrooms, there are workshops, online courses, and events to explore - all avenues to gain new skills. Reflect on your goals, work towards them, and strive to become an expert in your chosen field. However, don't get lost in constant studying.

I've taken part in various courses and self-taught projects. Your twenties are a great time for learning. Plan out your educational journey, set ambitious goals, and go after them with determination.

Going to college isn't the only path to knowledge; it's just the beginning of a lifelong learning adventure. Figure out who you want to be, learn from those who excel in fields you're interested in, and aim to surpass their achievements.

I remember a moment in my twenties when I called myself a "marketing expert" on my website, leading me to enroll in a marketing course the next day, just to say how important self-awareness and purposeful growth are. Evaluate your current skills, gain new ones, and picture yourself becoming the best version of you by your thirties - equipped with abilities you once thought were out of reach.

8. Prioritize Health and Harmony

It's important to choose the right company and steer clear of negativity. Surround yourself with positive influences and distance yourself from the negative ones. While everyone has a place in your life, remember that you have the power to decide who stays close and who drifts away.

Between the ages of 20 and 30, a significant transformation takes place. We move from youth to adulthood, taking on more responsibilities as relationships become more intricate. It's a natural progression. Childhood friends may grow apart not because of lack of caring, but because they are immersed in new life chapters where past interests no longer align.

This period signifies the beginning of achievements and setbacks, leading to a more grounded perspective and a humbler approach to the future. It's crucial to keep developing and nurturing a harmonious journey. The multitude of people we encounter between 20 and 30 highlights the importance of discerning who to keep close and who to let go.

Find an exercise routine that brings you joy. Taking care of both body and mind early on can enhance your overall well-being. Making self-care a priority is essential for personal growth and cultivating positive relationships. Surround yourself with supportive individuals and remove negativity from your circle without hesitation.

Mental well-being should be a primary focus. Whether through therapy, self-reflection, or moments of relaxation, tending to your mental health is vital. Pursue your fitness and dietary goals, participate in physical activities, explore the outdoors, and distance yourself from toxic influences in your life.

9. Master Cooking and Basic Skills

At twenty, if you haven't already, it's time to start picking up essential skills like cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, ironing clothes, and other small tasks. These skills will make you more independent and ensure a positive living experience with your future partner or friends. Don't underestimate the importance of knowing how to do these things.

Cooking is more than just a hobby; it's a crucial survival skill. Mastering cooking means independence - you choose the ingredients, manage your budget, and prioritize nutrition. It also helps you connect with others! Invite friends and family over, strengthen your relationships. By the time you hit thirty, having a few go-to recipes and confidence in the kitchen can really improve your daily life and social interactions.

10. Smart Future-Focused Finances

Investing before you hit 30 is a smart move. I've seen how money can grow through stocks and bonds over time. It's not just about getting rich, but getting ready for the future. I believe being financially inactive by 30 is a bad call.

The big worry is inflation. From my 20s to my 30s, the cost of living has kept going up, and it's likely to keep rising (unless things change big time). If you have €10,000 in your account, after ten years, that €10,000 is almost cut in half in value. It was tough for me to accept, but that's just how it is. Everything goes up; while pay might go up, the cost of living jumps up much quicker. So, if you let your money sit, time eats away at its value.

So, when you're in your 20s, you should really think about setting up an investment plan for the future. Long-term investments are a game-changer as they need a lot of time. After a decade and hitting 30, you'll see a much bigger investment pot waiting for you.

Just a heads up: since I wrote this article, up to today, November 6, 2024, the crypto market has jumped by 124%. Not financial advice.