Being in your 20s [1] is exciting, exhilarating, and intimidating all at once. This decade is all about figuring out who you are [2] and what you want, so you shouldn't feel bad about making a few mistakes along the way. It can be easy to get distracted by work, relationships, money, and so much more, but your first priority should be taking care of yourself [3]. And that starts with the small things. Keep reading for 31 things you can start doing right now to make today and your future so much better.
- Wear sunscreen every day.
- Start buying yourself flowers every week; it will improve your happiness level so much.
- Start your 401(k) and a savings account.
- Set aside a (small) portion of your paycheck to treat yourself to something on your wish list.
- Drink lots of water [5]. Your body will thank you.
- Work out or go for a run [6] whenever you're feeling down. It distracts your mind, floods you with endorphins, and helps you stay fit.
- Get your hair colored by a professional, not a box.
- Go social media-free [7] for a week.
- Stop relying on your parents for money.
- Learn a few go-to recipes. [8]
- Get rid of clothes you've had since high school.
- Stop getting blackout drunk.
- Don't punish yourself for buying lattes if it makes you happy.
- Deck out your office desk.
- Start practicing preventative moisturizing [9].
- Stop doing things because you feel obligated.
- Don't compare yourself to others.
- Feed your body right on a regular basis — but save room for the occasional treat, of course.
- Begin paying off college debt.
- Treat yourself to something new for your home that will make it a cozier and happier place to live in.
- Don't avoid the dentist.
- Pick up a new hobby or activity, even if it means doing it completely on your own.
- Pay off your credit card every month.
- Start letting go of toxic friends.
- Don't change or compromise aspects of your personality and who you are for someone you're dating.
- Have art on your walls that's not just unframed posters.
- Call your family. Email them. Send them a note when you miss them. They miss you just as much, if not more.
- Start hosting cocktail parties at home.
- Say yes [10] to more things. This is the time to experiment and try anything, and you most likely won't regret trying.
- Remember to love yourself [11], always.
- Get the guacamole. It's only $1.80 extra.