Five Insights I Wish I Had Known by Age 21
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Chapter 1: Embracing Change
As I approach my 33rd birthday, I've taken time to reflect on the past twelve years, particularly my experiences at 21. That age marked the beginning of adulthood, yet we were still figuring things out. Here are some crucial insights I wish I could share with my younger self.
Section 1.1: Cherish Your Body
Looking back at photos from when I was 21, I’m often taken aback by how vibrant I appeared. This isn’t vanity; rather, it’s an acknowledgment of my natural beauty—bright hair, a slim figure, and sparkling eyes. At the time, I focused on perceived flaws, wishing for a different body type as portrayed in magazines. Now, while I maintain a healthy lifestyle, I realize how important it is to appreciate one's body at every stage, knowing that future reflections might bring similar feelings of nostalgia.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Importance of Self-Acceptance
Section 1.2: Trust in Your Skills
After finishing university, I faced a tough job market, landing roles that didn’t align with my aspirations. Although these positions were legitimate and helped pay the bills, they didn’t fulfill me. My confidence took a hit, as I had been led to believe that a degree would guarantee a fulfilling career. Instead of pursuing my true interests, I chased graduate positions, only to experience repeated rejections. Ultimately, I gained traction in my desired field by taking a free online exam, which opened doors to multiple job offers. I wish I had been more selective from the start and had the confidence to pursue what I truly wanted.
Chapter 2: Discovering Enjoyment in Fitness
The first video, "5 Things I Wish I Knew At 20," explores essential life lessons from a youthful perspective, offering valuable insights that resonate with many.
The second video, "5 things I wish I knew at 20," continues to delve into the challenges and lessons that shape our understanding of life.
Section 2.1: The Joy of Movement
Many of us associate exercise with unpleasant memories from school gym classes, like enduring muddy fields or dreary runs. Although I was moderately fit, I never enjoyed physical activity and often gave up. It wasn’t until I was preparing for my wedding that I discovered boxercise, which transformed my view on fitness. I learned that exercise could be enjoyable when paired with fun routines and upbeat music. I wish I had discovered this sooner, as it could have made a significant difference in my approach to health.
Section 2.2: The Value of Sun Protection
It’s a well-known fact that sun exposure accelerates aging and harms the skin. Being fair-skinned, I understood the necessity of sunscreen during sunny days or vacations to prevent painful burns. However, I didn’t adopt daily sun protection until my late 20s, and even then, it was a minimal SPF moisturizer. Now, I prioritize a daily SPF 30 regimen, hoping it's not too late to protect my skin from lasting damage.
Section 2.3: Rethinking Meal Choices
Growing up in North West England, my meals revolved around the traditional “meat and two veg” concept. As I matured, I started experimenting with vegetarian meals once a week, which has now evolved into a predominantly plant-based diet at home. This shift has not only improved my health but also encouraged creativity in the kitchen, making meals more varied and cost-effective. I wish I had embraced this culinary exploration during my university years, which could have allowed me to allocate resources towards fitness classes sooner.
In conclusion, while I harbor no significant regrets, I wish I could have set myself on a clearer path earlier in life. What advice would you give to your younger self? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insights like these.