What I Would Tell My 20-Year-Old Self

Personally, here’s what I would say: this isn’t the end. No matter how hard things get, pick yourself up and do something—anything. You are not a bystander; you are part of this world. The very fact that you take action already has an impact. You probably can’t see it, but your actions are changing the rules of the game. As the saying goes: if you want to play beautifully, practice; if you want to win, learn the rules; if you want to keep winning, learn to change the rules. Life is a game in which YOU can change the rules. Use that power.

… The original post by Evgeny Politskovoy follows …

What I would tell my 20-year-old self: ⠀

• Speed matters! Don’t wait for anyone; catch up with those moving faster.

• Looks matter. Yes, I mean your appearance. ⠀

• Money is good! Don’t tie your income to your time. ⠀

• Choose your own path. Listen, learn, and observe, but always choose your own path. ⠀

• Work on your weaknesses, not your strengths. That way, you’ll see the world in all its beauty instead of obsessing over just one thing. ⠀

• Don’t listen to the dead. Traditions, your grandmother’s advice, made-up values—throw them all out. When you hear, “Because that’s how it’s always been done,” turn around and walk away. ⠀

• Grow and become the person you want to be. But never pretend to be someone you’re not. ⠀

• What do you think you’re capable of? Now multiply that by 10. ⠀

• Find your people. Always. It’s an ongoing process. Friends are the family we choose for ourselves. ⠀

• Change is good. Your greatest successes came when you chose to step into the unknown. If it scares you, that’s where you need to go. ⠀

• Age will suit you. You’ll grow more beautiful with every passing year. ⠀

• A new level requires a new way of thinking. Don’t resist it. ⠀

• 35 (45) isn’t even halfway through life. Your life is incredible, but the most interesting part is only just beginning. ⠀

What is the single most important thing you would tell your past self?