22 Powerful Things I’ve Learned at 22 Years Old

… more like 23 and a half by the time I finally publish this ?

Somewhere in Europe… [untitled] Photograph by Mila Fox

circa January 2024:

“Last week, the night owl in me took over and I was restless until 2 a.m… Prior to dozing off into a deep sleep I yearned to read some good poetry. However, I’m not familiar with many contemporary poets yet, so lot of my night was spent reading snippets from a little bit of everything. Turns out, what I really needed was guidance to rid myself of this daunting feeling that comes with almost turning 23 years old and still feeling so confused about what’s next.”

July 25th 2024. 8:00 a.m.

Well, it’s been six months since I turned 23 and I never finished this post. To be honest, I don’t think I even celebrated my birthday this year (for the first time ever) because I gave truth to a harrowing misconception: I convinced myself that the world lost all meaning since my five year plan that I drafted during my senior year of high school doesn’t quite match up to my reality… yet. The tricky thing about creating a ‘Five Year Plan’ as an actor is that you can’t always put a timeline on booking goals.

I’m already considering how Jim Carrey would be the perfect example to deny my aforementioned statement.

**If I brought this point up in conversation with my mom, her rebuttal would be “Not everyone is Jim Carrey…” My answer would be “True. But why can’t I be?” This conversation would go on and on for so many more hours, and today, I’ll spare you from it.

Let’s gracefully dive into the twenty-two thoughts that continually impact and inspire my growth. I hope it resonates with you too. If anything in this list sounds redundant, it’s probably because I have to reinforce the same messages to myself through several different mantras… A result of my unintentional fixation on semantics.

Now Presenting: 22 Concepts That I’m Still Reinforcing at 23 ?

Comparing yourself to others only dims your own light. Also, it’s a surefire way to eliminate motivation, and thus, productivity.
- Focus on your own achievements and goals
The world of social media muddies the way we see one another. It’s wildly disillusioning. Don’t let your mind become entrapped by the highly manufactured fantasies of virtual reality.
- Social media cleanses aren’t “cliche” they’re crucial
Patience is hard. Especially if you want that “thing” more than any other. However, when you learn to harness it, anything becomes possible.
- Gratitude lists are great reminders of all that you already have.
You can’t force what isn’t meant for you. And if you try, you may regret it.
- The power of attraction is real. Embrace it
It’s normal to outgrow some friendships.
- “Vibe checks” really do inform how you feel in others’ company
Do the hardest/least desirable tasks first!!!!! It’s dreadful in the beginning and an immense relief at the very end.
- Trust me on this one
When traveling, I encourage you to do the exact opposite of No. 6… Prioritize the the most desirable excursions first!!! No matter how good you plan, time always gets away. Don’t miss out on what you *really* want to do by leaving it for the end.
- And if the plan changes, embrace it
Sunscreen!!!! Ugh!! I’m very late to this party. Sunscreen is your best friend. And yes, it should be applied throughout the day, no matter what.
- Proactivity prevents future complications
Being reactive during an argument hurts your body more than it does the other person.
- Protect your inner peace
Enforcing a new habit may feel tedious at first but even our minds have to be trained.
- Practice makes perfect (or as close to it as possible)
“Growing up” is a never ending journey. We’ll always have lessons to learn no matter how old we are.
- Remind yourself that it’s okay to not have all the answers
The routines & schedules that we have in school should be maintained even after graduation. Being consistent is always the answer.
- Never underestimate the little things
Discipline is crucial. Stop giving yourself too much leeway.
- Self checks are a great way to prevent bad habits from forming
Don’t ignore the things that make your heart excited.
- Passion fuels our path to living
One of the greatest pains is regret. Take advantage of the beautiful opportunities that life presents to you.
- Don’t get stuck on what could have been, focus on what will be
Overthinking can become a crippling habit.
- “Women Who Overthink” is a great book that I’m currently reading
Someone’s criticism of you is merely a reflection of their own limiting beliefs.
- Remind yourself of this
Standing still only holds you back. Keep going forward, even if the direction is unclear.
- Read that first sentence again
You are not required to know all the answers.
- Frankly, none of us know exactly what we’re doing
If you’re unsure of what your likes/dislikes are, the only option is to try new things.
- Don’t get stuck in a monotonous cycle. Break free
It’s important to not let how you feel define who you are and the trajectory of your life. Feelings really aren’t always the facts
- And you are not what has happened to you
Recognize when your mind protecting you or simply keeping you from your destiny.
- Be honest with yourself about your fears and limiting beliefs. That’s the first step to overcoming them