Things I Have Learned So Far Being 23

Growing Up in a Different World

Being a young adult in this time and age feels like having a lot more responsibilities with fewer rewards, at least from where I stand.

AI is rapidly changing the nature of work. The world is becoming more urbanized, and the planet seems to suffer every day. We could aim to work in big corporations, and yet inflation often eats away what is left of our wages.

A lot of the advice we were given growing up seems less straightforward than it once did. We are left trying to assess which lessons still work and which ones need to be adapted in a rapidly changing environment shaped by shifting social and economic realities.

The quality of our lives depends largely on the quality of our lifestyle, relationships, values, and environment. These are some of the lessons I have learned so far.

Disclaimer: These reflections are only my subjective opinions based on what I have personally experienced.

Old and Traditional Values Have Truths in Them

What do I mean by this?

First off, I am not entirely traditional, nor do I believe everyone should live exactly the way I do. However, according to what I have observed, some of the values we may think of as “old” or “traditional” may have existed for a reason.

One example of this is in the area of purity.

I have failed in this aspect before, and to this day I am still repenting. Though I stumble at times, I strive not to repeat those mistakes by the help of His grace.

One traditional value I have reconsidered is sexual restraint. While it is often dismissed as outdated, I have personally learned that some boundaries exist not to restrict us, but to protect us.

It is ironic that we belong to one of the most informed generations in history, yet sexually transmitted infections remain especially common among young people. Public health data consistently shows that adolescents and young adults carry a disproportionately high burden of STI cases despite having access to more information than previous generations.

Saving Money Is Important

With the unending rise of inflation and little sign of meaningful relief, financial discipline is more important now than ever.

Many young adults today face rising housing costs, increasing living expenses, and economic uncertainty while still being expected to achieve the same milestones previous generations pursued. Whether that expectation is realistic is another question entirely.

I think it is unfair.

Health, Peace, and Relationships Are Very Important

We often take our bodies and health for granted. Especially now that many of us are pushed into increasingly sedentary lifestyles, it becomes more noticeable how little attention we sometimes give to our physical well-being.

Have an active lifestyle, and develop the patience and discipline to take care of your body.

Peace is equally important.

Many of us spend our days constantly stimulated, constantly scrolling, constantly worrying about what comes next. Yet some of the most meaningful moments in life happen when we slow down enough to be present.

Protecting your peace is not laziness. Sometimes it is wisdom.

Relationships require maintenance.

In the age of AI and chatbots, this is one of the easiest things to overlook.

Humans are messy, and it is hard to deny ourselves and actively place ourselves in situations where people may inconvenience us, especially in an age that often emphasizes self-love above all else.

Most people are naturally concerned with their own lives, but if you do have people who are important to you, being able to reciprocate their efforts to connect with you—or even initiating those efforts yourself—is necessary as you grow older.

You do not need a lot of friends, only a few quality ones.

If you can add to your circle, good. But focus more on maintaining the quality of your friendships and ensuring that the people around you are helping you become a better person.

Your Environment Matters

People often underestimate the amount of influence they allow into their lives. They consume whatever is placed before them without always stopping to think critically about it first.

I sincerely hope that my readers are not taking everything I say at face value and will hold me accountable if necessary.

But environment matters more than people realize.

It can make your life easier or harder. It can fill you with hope or leave you in despair.

No matter which lifestyles, ideas, or influencers you follow, make sure they are leading you toward a life that is richer, healthier, and more meaningful.

The Seeds We Plant in Our Twenties

I have learned that life is more fulfilling when we give more of ourselves. It is less exciting and ultimately less meaningful when I choose to self-love my way through everything all the time.

The quality of your life depends on the quality of your lifestyle, relationships, values, and environment.

And there is no sowing season better than our early twenties.

We may not immediately see the harvest of all the little seeds we plant today, but sooner or later they will come to fruition. And when they do, we will eat of their fruit, whether rotten or good.

Trusting God Through It All

Do not worry too much, and trust the Lord with all your heart.

All we can do is trust, do our best, pray, and love.

For life is all about loving God above all else and loving others as you love yourself.

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Adolescents and Young Adults.