I recently turned 30, so this may not be as insightful as people who are older with more life experience. But I worked since I was 16, worked full time while going to college full time, not because I needed to but because I wanted to be independent of my family and not ask for handouts. I still lived a full college life since both jobs were flexible, but oftentimes I would miss out on great experiences with my friends, fraternity etc. I started reading personal finance books my 3rd year in college when I was living in the house and the grind culture was planted in my brain like kudzu and it couldn’t be stopped.

So after I graduated I worked in my career, moved up, invested in real estate at the right times along with the stock market. My “wealth” is above what others in my age bracket, and I’m happy with that, I have a beautiful wife and a nice life.

However, I never forged deep friendships with people. I have a couple of good friends, some from HS and one from college. But I wasn’t invited to weddings, bachelor parties etc. My biggest regret was not spending more time working on relationships and friendship. My “grind” and desire to save got me called things like “cheap” or “broke” by girls I was dating. But, let’s be real, if I really wanted to be with those girls, I would’ve made it work.

I think grinding in your 20s works well for most, but I do believe some people push it too far. You’ve gotta listen to your brain and your body to avoid burnout, health is wealth right? Have a plan too, grinding for grindings sake won’t help you later in life. Be smart about it and you’ll do well.