Happy Monday, friends! As always, the weekend has gone too fast – but hopefully it’s a great week for everyone! I mentioned a few weeks ago that one of my goal’s for the second year in a row was to achieve more genuine happiness, and be content with life. It definitely takes work, but there’s a few things that I’ve been trying to focus on the past few months to lead an overall better life – and I think a lot of people my age could benefit from them! While this is my advice for 20-something’s, there is absolutely zero scientific backing, and I am not an expert in “life” at all haha! My friends and I always say that this is such a crazy time, so these are things that help me navigate through my own little rollercoaster.
Don’t Worry as Much
One of my top pieces of advice for 20-something’s is to learn to let go. I’m sure some of my family and friends will be thinking “practice what you preach,” because I’m naturally the biggest worry wort… ever! One of my closest friends in the city probably thinks I’m nuts because I worry about the dumbest little things!
However, the past few months I’ve been trying to make a conscious effort to let go of whatever isn’t in my control, and not worry as much. I read an article a while back that said when you worry, it changes absolutely nothing – so what’s the point? At this age, I’m sure the things we obsess about most are our careers, our relationships, our bodies and so many other things. Unless you’re making a serious commitment to improving or changing certain aspects of your life, worrying will not change a thing. And I know it’s easier said than done, but once you learn to let go even just a bit – you’ll already notice yourself feeling freer and less anxious about things.
Be More Adventurous
My friends from college are probably laughing at this too, because my freshman year of college all I wanted to do was sleep! I eventually (and fortunately) recovered, and learned to enjoy going out and being on adventures a lot. When I moved to Chicago, I wanted to make new friends and meet new people, so I started going out a ton and experiencing new things.
You can sleep when you’re older, so now is the time to go to shows, head to the museums and rack up as many different experiences you can! However, don’t get me wrong – I love a good lounge day or weekend just as much as anyone, but making those less of a habit in your life will be a good thing, and will make you feel more fulfilled. It’s also an excellent way to make new connections!
Don’t Take Things So Seriously
Wouldn’t be surprised if there were people who thought I should be more serious, but I prefer not being so uptight and rigid. I’ve learned to be more loose in certain aspects of my life, and have realized that when you dismiss notions of how things “should” be or how you want them to be, something falls into place that’s completely, but fortunately, unexpected. In fact, an article on the Huffington Post explains that, “When we take ourselves less seriously, we’re able to see the humor in situations, find the silver lining when things don’t go the way we want them to, and navigate through the ups and downs of life a bit easier.”
So, there ya have it! Are there other pieces of advice that you guys live by?! Would love to hear them!
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Photos by Katie Niemiec
Love love love your tips! I constantly have to tell myself to worry less. It’s hard but a much healthier way of thinking!
Kim
http://www.simplylovebirds.com
So glad you enjoyed them, Kim! And I know… easier said than done, but I definitely think it makes a difference!
Such great advice babe! I wish worry was something I would have left in my 20’s but I definitely brought it with me into 30’s. LOL
xx Leah / http://www.eatpraywearlove.com
Thanks a ton, Leah! And I totally feel you LOL – it’s so much easier said than done, but just small efforts make a big difference!! 🙂
looking so cute in stripes! darling outfit!
kelseybang.com
Thanks a lot, Kelsey! Glad you like it!
Could not agree more! There’s no point worrying so much at that age!
Chelsea
Chow Down USA
I’m with you, Chelsea! Worrying changes absolutely nothing, so no need!
What a cute read, and I couldnt agree more. Especially about worrying less. 20s is the age where you’re trying to find where to align yourself. It can be frustrating at times, but hey, live the present and work hard for your goals, and everything will be alright.
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
Thanks a lot, Jess! And completely agree – it’s definitely an interesting time period, but keeping calm and working towards your goals makes it a lot easier!
A very insightful post. Well thought out. It’s easy to worry but once you learn not to it’s like a load off. Stress is not good for our physical or mental health. We just have to faith and find joy in each day even if it is a little thing.
I definitely like your outfit. Those boots are a great color. Very good contrast.
Thank you, mom! And yesI agree – having faith and finding joy in the small moments is absolutely key!