20 life lessons for my 20 year old self

I don’t believe in ‘if onlys’ and regret, but still, I do sometimes think of the way I was in my 20s. Back then, I dreaded getting older, which among everything was my biggest misconception. Now, older, wiser, and better in every way, I see everything in another light. Of course, our vision is always the clearest in hindsight. So, with that in mind if I could go back to the girl I was, here’s what I would tell her:

1. Be confident and don’t compare yourself to others. Appreciate everyone, but don’t think they’re all better than you. Find out what makes you unique and enjoy that. 
2. Don’t wear arrogance as a shield to protect yourself. Your softness is your style, own it. It will make you more beautiful. 
3. Don’t eat processed food, it will complicate your health in your 30s.
4. Partying hard will ruin your skin. You don’t have to indulge in anything because of peer pressure.
5. Don’t ever, ever, get your hair chemically straightened. It will take a couple of years to completely grow out.
6. You won’t have that natural size-6 body forever. The moment the clock strikes 30, your metabolism will change and you’ll have to work HARD to keep it in shape. Start working out now so it’s easier for you later. 
7. Drink LOTS of water, it’ll help save money on skincare.
8. Don’t ravage your face with anti-acne treatments. They’re making your skin more inflamed. If nothing else, just wash your face with Cetaphil. 
9. Don’t surround yourself with friends who drain you emotionally. Friends should be fun and dependable, not put you under a pressure test.
10. Don’t be a people pleaser. People who love you will continue to do so without you having to prove yourself. 
11. The boys you think are losers are actually quite lovely. Bad boys are just plain bad. 
12. Believe in people’s vibes. If you don’t get good energy from someone then don’t waste a single second with them. Trust your instincts above everything else.
13. Eat more fruit and veg - you may not love them now, but your body will thank you for these healthy habits later. 
14. Don’t pick your zits. They’ll leave behind scars that even the most powerful lasers cannot remove.
15. Don’t be a bitch just because it’s funny. In a few years you’ll cringe at some of the things you did just for a laugh. 
16. Don’t be with someone just because they’re attracted to you. 
17. Don’t take a break in your career even if you’re very talented. You’ll forget how to write/ paint/ draw if you don’t practice. 
18. People who love you will always treat you with respect. There’s no excuse for humiliating behaviour. 
19. You need to learn to take care of yourself first. Find out what you like, your boundaries, and your interests. Then choose people who compliment with your growth. 
20. Growing old is the best thing that will happen to you. You will look better, be more confident, successful, and also have a set of wonderful friends.