Are you in your 20s? Read this

If you’re still in your 20s, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty about your future. It’s a time when you’re expected to make big life decisions, like choosing a career, finding a partner, and figuring out what you really want in life.

I have talked to several Rwandans about what a person should definitely know when they are in their 20s. They have shared some pearls of wisdom and I’m here to expand on them.

Cleti Nsabimana, 32, a Digital consultant reminds us to be patient and persistent in pursuing our goals. He says, “You can’t plant a seed and expect it to grow into a tree overnight. It takes time and effort, but if you keep watering it and taking care of it, it will eventually bear fruit.”

This is especially true when it comes to building a career or starting a business. You may face setbacks and obstacles along the way, but if you stay focused and keep putting in the work, you’ll eventually see results.

Social media does not make it easy. You see all these people showcasing their success but most of the time they do not show you the reality or the bad times.

Nsabimana says most people in their 20s feel like they should experience overnight success which is often not the case.

Denyse Uwineza emphasizes the importance of networking and building relationships. She says, “Your network is your net worth. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people and make connections. You never know who could be the key to your success.”

This is particularly relevant in Rwanda, where the culture of “Umuganda” in other words community service encourages people to come together and work towards a common goal. “By building relationships with others, you can tap into their knowledge, skills, and resources to achieve your own goals,” she explained.

Alexis Girubuntu offers some advice on dealing with failure. He says, “Failure is not the end of the road. It’s a detour that can lead you to a better path.” This is a refreshing perspective, as many of us tend to view failure as a crushing defeat. But in reality, failure can be an opportunity to learn and grow. By embracing failure and using it as a learning experience, you can come back stronger and more resilient.

Dorcé Umuhire reminds us to take care of our mental health. She says, “Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Don’t be afraid to seek help if you’re struggling.” This is especially relevant in a society where mental health is often stigmatized and overlooked.

But taking care of your mental health is essential for living a fulfilling life. Whether it’s through therapy, meditation, or simply taking time for self-care, prioritize your mental well-being.

Last but not least, Eugénie Uwizeye encourages us to embrace our individuality. She says, “You don’t have to fit into a certain mold to be successful. Embrace your unique qualities and use them to your advantage.”

In a world that often values conformity over creativity, it can be easy to feel like you need to blend in to succeed. But in reality, it’s our unique qualities that make us stand out and shine. “You should create a path that’s uniquely your own,” she said.

Remember: Don’t forget to have fun along the way! After all, life is too short to take yourself too seriously.