Quarter of a Century

Turning a quarter of a century old isn't scary as it seems at all. When you reached this age, some people may begin to think about achievements, goals, and failures, which can make twenty five more daunting. But for me, I consider it as a gift to re-evaluate myself, my goals and what I want my future self be like (at least 5 years from now). 

So I just want to share with you some of my realizations now that I turned 25.

1. I'm no longer at the early twenties bracket but now at the "mid-twenties."

2. I've learned to let go of unrealistic expectations. 

3. Accept that nothing is perfect. Letting go of any expectations of perfection will help us focus on the positive changes in our lives.

4. I'm more sure of what I want this time. 

5. I've learned not to apologize especially if I know that I'm clearly not in the wrong. But in some cases, we should learn to put our pride away. It's not a sign of weakness but of "maturity."

6. Not compare myself with others. Every person is different and comparing ourselves to other people can minimize our self-confidence. So just hang in there, we'll all have our own breakthroughs.

7. Set goals for every aspect of my life: personal, financial and professional. Give myself short and long term goals to achieve and reassess them every year.

8. Get the most out of life as I can through travel, education, or even just investing time with my loved ones. I know that this will help me realize that by the time I turn thirty, I will feel more fulfilled and contented.

9. "Don't chase, get chosen."

10. Love and trust yourself. Be with the people who make you feel good about yourself.

Don't let the societal conception about "getting old" discourage you. Relax, it's just a number. Yes, you are about to turn 25 (or may have already) but seriously, being 25 isn't so bad. You've already built the base, now build the walls of your life, decorate it just the way you wanted and paint it with your favorite colors. Just savor the moment and live a worry-free life.