12 Things I Wish Someone Told Me in My 20’s
As a Business Entrepreneur and Opinion Leader my career is full of successes and failures. To this day, I still remember an interview I did for a newspaper in 2008 where they used a quote of mine for the headline: "You have to want to eat the world". “Tienes que tener ganas de comerte el mundo”.
13 years later I’m still driven by that same premise, and though one always wants to have achieved more, I have no doubt that I have lived this premise profusely.
I believe your 20’s and 30’s are your most productive and energetic years. Take full advantage of them! This is why I urge and encourage you to take advantage of these tips that I wish I knew in my 20’s:
Work hard: These are the most productive years of your life! Aim high and reach for new goals.
Exercise: I mean it, stay active! It will help you keep a clear mind, pump up your energy, release endorphins and overall feel better. Don’t fall for weight loss fads. Eat well, drink water, stay active.
Be hungry: Strive to do more than those around you. Dare to stand out!
Be vocal: Have an opinion, pitch articles, host a podcast, write a blog, develop relationships with reporters. Make your voice be heard.
Network early on: Attend networking events and meet people. Go to industry events. Befriend your clients. You never know what opportunities and doors these relationships can open in the future.
Take a year (or two) to work abroad: If your employer allows remote work, take the leap and ask for a one year remote policy. If not, don't be afraid to apply for that crazy amazing dream job abroad.
Dress to impress: Enter the room with confidence and give a great first impression. If you want to be treated as a professional, dress the part.
Never stop learning: Read books, watch tutorials, browse through magazines, find a mentor. Learning doesn't stop after graduation. In fact, most knowledge is learned after school.
Stop overspending: Learn to use your money for things that bring value. You don’t need to ask for delivery or take out if there’s food at home.
Travel as much as you can: Travel to learn about cultures, analyze the context, compare thoughts, try new foods. Traveling doesn't need to be expensive, you can even start roadtriping. Culture can vary even at the regional level.
Find mentors: Reach out to people you admire, ask them to be your mentors. They’ll be thrilled, so don’t be afraid. Invite them around every 3 months for coffee. Ask questions, share your experiences, and most importantly, listen.
Visualize: Think about what success looks like to you in the next three years and pursue it!
You go Jefa y Jeva! Is your time to shine!