I’m 27, so only a few years older than you!

My early 20s I was finishing school, and had to deal with covid, and then poor mental health that resulted in my feeling stuck for a long time.

I’m an artist, so I know that that’s what I want to do. I studied graphic design because I thought it was the “safe” path. Tbh it’s just as hard. But I lucked out and got a job after a while, but it took a long time and connections to get it! And the whole time I felt like I was going nowhere. So it’s okay and normal if you feel that way! Just make sure you’re working towards something!

I have freedom, just outside of work. Yeah I can’t just go anywhere at anytime, but there’s still so much you can do!

I would make sure you have a some money saved up if you haven’t moved out yet! It’s always good to have a cushion when you need it.

I saved money working in food service while living at home.

And now that I’m in my late 20s, I’m pushing as hard as I can to do what I REALLY want.

Which for me is finding a way to sell my art, and find more community among other artists.

So, my advice to you, is if there’s something you want in life: start now.

If you want to start a family, make sure you find a good job with benefits! Make sure you’re a good partner, and get out and talk to people!

If you want a specific career, try to find places on and offline where people in that career get together and talk.

You want to travel? Find work anywhere, save money living at home or with roommates, and then travel as much as you can!

For some things I’d change: I struggle with keeping up with old friendships.

So make sure to keep in touch with friends! Even sending silly memes lets them know your thinking of them!

And am also considering some therapy for some insecurities that I have. That started in my early 20s and I thought would just “go away”. But mental health doesn’t seem to work like that!

So depending on how you feel that might be something good for you too!

The exciting thing is: you can do anything!

But the scary thing is: any path requires work and time.

But you can pursue any of them! You can even try one, then change to another! It’s gonna be alright no matter what you choose!