25 Things I Wish I Knew at 20

Introduction

They say hindsight is 20/20—but at 20 years old, we don’t yet know what we don’t know.

Now, at 56, I’ve lived a little, failed a little, learned a lot, and discovered what really matters. If I could sit down with my 20-year-old self over a cup of coffee and offer some wisdom—not as commands, but as gentle nudges—this is what I’d say.

These aren’t just lessons for the young; they’re reminders for all of us, no matter the season of life or business we’re in. So whether you’re just getting started, pivoting in the middle, or mentoring someone else, I hope these 25 truths help you find clarity, purpose, and a little inspiration for the road ahead.

1. Set goals—and write them down.A goal unwritten is just a wish. Make it real. Make it happen.

2. Choose your spouse carefully.It’s the most important decision you’ll ever make. Pick someone who makes you better, not just happier.

3. Attitude is a choice.You can’t control everything, but you can control how you show up. Choose joy. Choose grit.

4. Live debt-free.Debt will steal your peace. Be purposeful with money and build freedom, not just a lifestyle.

5. Be nice to everyone, always.It costs nothing. And the return is enormous.

6. Don’t lend money—give it if you can, say no if you have to.Keep relationships clean. Generosity beats resentment every time.

7. Faith is important. Don’t ignore it.You’ll need something deeper than yourself when life gets heavy.

8. Your reputation is your greatest asset.Protect it. It opens doors that talent alone never could.

9. Seek adventure—life is fun.Don’t wait for perfect timing. Take the trip somewhere new. Try the thing.

10. Make your life extraordinary.Not flashy—meaningful. Live on purpose. Leave a mark.

11. Start saving and investing early.Compound interest is real magic. Let time work for you.

12. "Buy the Theater"Pour yourself into "something" that matters...and watch it change everything around you.

13. The people around you will shape your future.Surround yourself with encouragers, dreamers, and truth-tellers.

14. Say no more often.Every yes costs you something. Say no to protect your best yeses.

15. You won’t always feel motivated. That’s okay.Show up anyway. Consistency beats hype.

16. Don’t fear failure.Fear staying the same. You’ll learn more from what doesn’t work than what does. "Once you become fearless, life becomes limitless."

17. Find mentors. Be a mentor.Learn from people ahead of you—and then help someone behind you.

18. Time is your most valuable currency.Spend it like you mean it. Don’t trade it for approval or distractions.

19. Love your hometown.Even if you leave, carry it with pride. Your roots matter.

20. Your story isn’t finished.Keep writing it. The best parts are still to come.

21. Always be growing.Read (a lot). Go to conferences and seminars. Take classes. Stretch your thinking. You never “arrive”—you just keep evolving.

22. Don’t complain—ever.Complaining changes nothing. Gratitude and action change everything.

23. Learn to public speak.You don’t have to be a performer—just be authentic. It will unlock doors and give you a voice in every room you walk into.

24. Embrace change.Life won’t stay the same. And that’s a good thing. The best days are often ahead—if you’re open to them.

25. Step into your uncomfort zone every chance you get.That’s where growth lives. Risk and reward are roommates

Conclusion

Life doesn’t come with a manual, but it does offer us mentors, moments, and meaning—if we’re paying attention.

These 25 lessons aren’t about perfection. They’re about direction. About living deliberately, choosing wisely, and leading with heart. I don’t have it all figured out—but if this list helps you take even one step toward the life you were made for, then it’s worth sharing.

Now it’s your turn: what would you tell your 20-year-old self?

Let’s keep growing, together.