8 essential things you should be doing in your 20s
Your twenties are often described as the “defining decade.” It’s the stage where you’re no longer a teenager, yet still shaping the adult you want to become. The choices you make now — in career, relationships, health, and personal growth — can set the tone for decades to come.
While there’s no single blueprint for life, here are some important things worth focusing on in your twenties.
Things You Should Do In Your 20s
1. Invest in Your Education and Skills
Whether or not you have a degree, your twenties are the perfect time to keep learning. The job market changes rapidly, and having a mix of hard and soft skills makes you adaptable. Consider taking short online courses, learning a new language, or developing digital skills like coding, graphic design, or marketing.
Education at this stage isn’t just about formal schooling; it’s about equipping yourself with tools that can help you switch careers, launch a side hustle, or stand out in a competitive industry.
2. Prioritise Your Health and Fitness
In your twenties, it’s easy to assume your body will always “bounce back.” But neglecting your health now can cause problems later. This is the decade to build strong habits: exercise regularly, eat balanced meals, stay hydrated, and keep up with medical check-ups.
Mental health is just as important. Stress from work, studies, or relationships can pile up, so find healthy coping mechanisms — whether that’s journalling, therapy, or simply learning when to unplug from social media.
3. Build Financial Discipline
Money habits formed in your twenties often stick for life. Learning to budget, save, and invest now can give you financial freedom in your thirties and beyond. Start by creating an emergency fund, setting aside savings for rent or future housing, and avoiding high-interest debt.
4. Explore Career Opportunities (and Don’t Fear Mistakes)
Many people in their twenties feel pressured to find their “dream job” instantly. The truth is, this is the decade to experiment. Try different industries, take internships, start side projects, or even change careers if something doesn’t feel right.