The Best Years Of Your Life | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

The Best Years Of Your Life

Why you need to avail your 20s while they last.

51
The Best Years Of Your Life
Ameera Minhas

Life consists of numerous phases. From the time we're born to the time we're on our deathbeds, it can be described as a "blink" of an eye. Every stage is special to its own meaning. Since birth, a newborn represents a sense of something special and optimistic, both for its caregivers and the world at hand. During childhood, the energy, imagination, and inspiration given off by these young souls illustrate their naivety and innocence. As we begin to grow older and enter adolescence, we strive to adjust ourselves to the norms of society, fitting in, and dealing with principles of ingenuity and passion. As time progresses, the entrance into adulthood marks one of the greatest periods of our lives.

Your twenties, otherwise classified as early adulthood, is the only real time of your life. It's the only few years that are entirely yours. For a majority of us, this is the time when the only responsibility we have is to ourselves. Sure, there's responsibilities to fulfill, classes to attend, shifts at work to cover, student loans to pay, or even rent and utilities to cover too. But for a moment, put that all aside. Whatever you're doing is for YOU. Many of us may not have children to look after or a spouse to attend to. We may not have other responsibilities, such as providing for a family and ensuring there's a roof over their head and food on the table. This is the prime time of discovery, the prime time of making our mark on the world. All of us have a passion of some kind within us - whether it be starting a new band, becoming famous, or serving the world through humanitarian services, there's this flame of passion within each and every one of us that is dying to be fulfilled. Is there a goal you want to achieve? Something you've always wanted to do but were too afraid of its outcome? Too scared to think what would happen because you don't have a "plan"? Take a step back - this is your own time. It's the only time span in life, the only years where making a mistake is OK. Risk-taking is perfectly fine, even though it's not encouraged by societal norms. What's going to happen if your life dreams and goals don't turn out as planned? At least you tried. That's all that matters. At least you tried pursuing your dreams and weren't stopped by societal expectations, familial limitations, or most importantly, the doubtful voice within yourself.

Sure, you can still pursue your goals in the later phases of adulthood. You can still change career paths after you're married, settled and have had children. You can still follow your dreams and passions in your 30's and 40's. There's nothing wrong with that. But there's something special about your twenties. The passion. The zeal. The burning flames of risk-taking and adventure-pursuance. A time where there are days with no worries except for turning in an assignment that will have no value 15 years from now. This time is absolutely special. Absolutely amazing.

So go out there. Go out there and start the business you've always wanted to. Pursue the political route you've always desired. Enroll in the graduate program you've doubted you would be accepted into. So what if it doesn't turn out as planned? At least you can continue throughout life knowing that you've tried. Avail this four to five year time span. It'll be over before you know it.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

25351
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

10592
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7819
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments