The age of 30 is a milestone in the lives of women, as it is at this age that we definitely stop being seen as “young” and start to be seen as “adults”.
Of course, we still retain our youth, but the responsibilities of everyday life mean that we have to act with a different attitude than we had when we were 20 years old.
At 30, many of us are already married and with children – and those who are not usually suffer from constant demands from family members and, often, from themselves.
These demands do not mean that we have to follow what others expect of us, but they certainly force us to be firmer and more mature in order to know how to deal with expectations.
In order to reach any age and feel good about yourself, it is essential not to skip stages in life – and this is no different at the age of 30.
So here are 10 things every woman should (or should) do in her 20s so she can reach her 30s full and fulfilled:
1. Have a healthy routine
Unfortunately, most people notice a decline in metabolism after the age of 30, which ultimately leads to weight gain.
It’s much easier to lose weight when you’re younger, so take advantage of your 20s to eat healthy and get in the habit of exercising. Your body will thank you in the future.
2. Find a hobby
Having a hobby is a great way to connect with yourself and also to meet people who share that interest with you.
Have you ever thought about learning to cook? Take pictures? Dancing flamenco? No matter what the activity, having a hobby is an activity that can accompany you for a lifetime.
3. Invest in your training
It’s not impossible to go to college or graduate school after you get married and have children, but your routine will certainly be lighter if you choose to invest in your education while you don’t have these responsibilities yet.
Plus, starting at age 20, you’ll have plenty of time ahead of you to build your career without getting hitched.
4. Travel alone
Traveling is a great way to get to know other cultures and other ways of life, but it’s also a great way to get to know more about yourself.
Even if it’s just a weekend trip to the beach, spending time just with yourself, in a different place, will make you know your own company better. Enjoy your freedom.
5. Fall in love!
Maybe this isn’t the man of your life – or maybe he is, we don’t know! – but being in a relationship is part of life and our emotional maturation.
It is true that you may end up hurting yourself, but this is also one of the lessons that make us stronger to reach 30 years.
6. Learn to step out of your comfort zone
It’s not easy to take the first step towards something completely new and unknown, but keep in mind that you will only evolve from the moment you take risks outside your comfort zone.
By trying new things, facing challenges and accepting to know truths different from your own, you will be opening paths to find innovations in studies, work and personal life, without more of the same.
7. Dedicate yourself to a social cause
Find a cause you believe in and try to dedicate some of your time to it. It can be an NGO that takes care of animals, an association of needy mothers or even an asylum: there are many people in need of help.
By donating your time and doing something for those who need it, you will be doing a huge good for those people and for yourself.
8. Have a life plan
At age 20, we’re still not quite sure what we hope for our entire lives, but it’s possible to have a pretty good idea of what you’d like to be doing in the next 5-10 years.
If you want to build a career in a multinational, for example, you need to invest in your training right now. If your plan is to open a small business, this is the time to research the market, do an internship and get to know your area of interest more closely.
The future may seem distant, but it arrives faster than we think.
9. Learn to love yourself
Even if you are not in a romantic relationship or feel that you have few friends, you should be aware of your strengths.
Nobody is perfect, but don’t fall into the temptation of devaluing yourself to justify a momentary situation. Recognize your good side, work your negative side and know how to forgive and love yourself.
10. Own who you are and be okay with it
Everyone likes series, but you don’t care? Your friends live at the club, but do you prefer to stay at home? No problem.
Accept your identity, your preferences and your aptitudes. Each person is unique, and your personality makes you a special person. Of course, toxic behavior must be addressed, but if you feel confident with your choices, go for it!
A final tip: Are you over 30 and not able to accomplish all of the items on the list above? So know that it’s never too late.
Maybe you no longer have as much free time and energy to do everything you would like, but on the other hand, you are now a wiser and more mature woman – and that counts for a lot of points too.