🐣 Things I Wish I Knew Before Turning 20

    by natadecoco

 

🌷 It’s Okay to Let Go of Certain People

Some friendships and relationships won’t last forever and that’s perfectly fine. Before 20, I used to hold on tightly to people even when they no longer felt right in my life, just because I was scared of being alone. But letting go doesn’t mean you’re a bad friend; it means you’re making space for people who truly support and understand you. Sometimes, outgrowing people is a sign that you’re growing into yourself.

🌷 Set Boundaries Early and Without Guilt

One of the biggest lessons I wish I learned sooner is that it’s okay to say no. You don’t owe everyone your time or energy, and protecting your peace is not selfish, it’s necessary. Whether it’s declining a plan when you’re exhausted or walking away from a toxic relationship, setting boundaries will teach others how to treat you and teach yourself that you deserve respect.

🌷Take Care of Your Health Now, Not Later

When you’re young, it’s easy to ignore your health, thinking you’re too busy or too strong to worry about it. But taking care of your body early on eating well, exercising, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep will save you from regrets later. It’s not about chasing a certain look; it’s about building a foundation that supports you for years to come.

🌷Don’t Feel Pressured to Have Life Figured Out

At 18 or 19, it feels like everyone is rushing somewhere choosing a career, planning a future, defining themselves. I wish I knew back then that it’s completely okay not to have all the answers yet. Your twenties are meant for exploring, learning, and even making mistakes. Give yourself permission to grow at your own pace.

🌸 Not Everyone Will Like You, and That’s a Good Thing

Before 20, I used to bend over backwards just to be liked by everyone around me. I changed parts of myself, agreed with things I didn’t truly believe in, just to avoid conflict or rejection. What I’ve learned since then is that not everyone is meant to like you and that’s okay. It means you’re living authentically. The right people will love you for who you are, not for who you pretend to be.

🌸 Failure Doesn’t Mean You’re Not Good Enough

When you’re a teenager, every setback can feel like the end of the world a bad grade, a rejection, or a missed opportunity. I wish I knew then that failure is part of growth. Every “no” or mistake teaches you something you can’t learn from success alone. Don’t let fear of failing hold you back from trying. You’re not supposed to have a perfect record; you’re supposed to learn.

🌸 Learn to Enjoy Your Own Company

Spending time alone doesn’t mean you’re lonely. In fact, learning to enjoy your own company is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself. Before 20, I felt like I always needed friends around or constant plans to feel okay. But now I know that solitude can be peaceful, healing, and empowering.