Lessons Learned in Transition
Now that I am starting the last year of my 20’s, I thought it would be a good time to reflect on what being in my 20’s has meant to me, and maybe shed some wisdom to those who are still working their way through the years I like to call THE TRANSITION YEARS.
It Aint Easy
I am not going to lie. I found some of my 20’s to be extremely difficult. I am sure some people transition easier into the “real world” but I had a very hard time. At 22 I was a college graduate and very excited to enter the real world. I was going to be a PR super star, live in Manhattan and live the life! Unfortunately, that year brought on 9/11 and a failing economy. I had no job and no one willing to share an apartment with me in Manhattan. Things do not always turn out exactly as you hope, so be sure to surround yourself with people who will love and support you through tough times.
Gotta Pay the Rent
You can’t always hold out for your dream job. I believe that life is too short to be anything but happy but I had to pay rent. So I waitressed to make ends meet until I got my first “real” job in Manhattan. I was so excited until I found myself bored for the next 8 months. Obviously, PR wasn't working for me and I had to tweak my dream–that's when I got a revelation. I learned that what you think you should be doing and what you ought to be doing are two different things. So, I left to work for my dad and it was perfect! Don't be afraid to reshape your dreams–it just might be the best decision you make.
Follow Your Heart
Relationships are important so listen to your heart. Only you know what’s right for you. My husband and I were together long before we got engaged. At times it was hard for me to accept waiting for him to get his life together, but I knew in my heart he was the man for me–so I waited. I waited even though sometimes people questioned my decision. But I stuck it out because being with him was important to me. And I'm so happy I did–I'm a better woman for it!
Stop Comparing Yourself
You are YOU and you will not always be at the same point in your life as all of your friends. Some will be in relationships, some will not. Some will own homes, some will rent. The point is if they are a true friend–and you theirs–they (and you) you will want to be there for eachother. At the same time, you will probably lose some friends along the way and gain new ones. Just because you were friends for a long time doesn’t mean you are meant to ALWAYS be friends. So, keep your mind and heart open.
Thirty seemed so old and so far away when I was in college, but not now. I have so much to look forward to in my future and I welcome my 29th year with open arms. I am ready…
So, what did your 20’s teach you?
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I learned that…what people think of me really doesn't matter, because in general they don't care, they'll accept whatever I am
So now I wear sparkly jewelry, bows in my hair, and bright shirts with leggings. I talk about what we're doing- grinding my wheat, cloth diapers, vermicomposting, line drying, homeschooling. Because it's what I AM doing. 
I totally agree. You are who you are and people can take it or leave it. I am still working on that one and I think that will come even more in my 30's:)