At 28, looking back on my 20s feels like looking through a window into a different world. While I still have a couple of years left in this decade, I have gained enough clarity to reflect on the past eight years with a newfound perspective. Although I don’t have any regrets because dwelling on the past is as pointless as putting your hands on a hot stove, there are definitely things I would do differently if I could go back to my early 20s armed with the wisdom I have now.

Making the most of life may sometimes seem challenging, but it is not impossible. Here are nine things that I have learned to give up in order to create an amazing life for myself:

1. Settling for less than my worth: Whether it’s settling for a relationship that I don’t truly love, accepting a job that doesn’t align with my passions, or giving up on my dreams, I have realized the importance of not settling for less than I deserve. We often underestimate our own worth due to past experiences or negative self-perception, but it is essential to recognize that we are valuable individuals who deserve the best life has to offer.

2. Changing for others: In my 20s, I often found myself trying to be someone I was not in order to fit in or impress others. However, this only resulted in losing sight of my true self. I have learned that the people who are meant to be in my life will accept and love me for who I am, rather than who I am trying to be.

3. Spending the day online: While the internet offers numerous opportunities for learning, entertainment, and even making a living, spending excessive amounts of time online can be detrimental to our mental and physical well-being. I have realized the importance of finding a balance between utilizing the internet for productive purposes and fully experiencing the beauty of life offline.

4. Thinking likes and followers equal genuine friends: In the digital age, it is easy to mistake virtual connections for genuine friendships. However, meaningful relationships are built on deep connections and shared experiences. I have come to understand that it is crucial to invest time and effort in building real friendships that can support me through both the good and bad times.

5. Sweeping problems under the rug: In my younger years, I often avoided dealing with problems, hoping they would just go away. However, I have learned that burying problems only allows them to fester and grow. It is far better to confront issues head-on, as they will continue to impact our lives until we address them.

6. Caring about what others think of me: The fear of judgment and criticism from others is something many of us experience throughout our 20s. However, I have realized that most people are too preoccupied with their own lives to constantly judge or critique others. Once I embraced this perspective, it became a life-changing realization that freed me from the shackles of seeking validation from others.

7. Thinking I had limited options: Growing up, I believed that going to college was the only path to success. However, I now understand that there are countless possibilities available to me. It is important to challenge conventional thinking and explore different paths, rather than restricting ourselves to what others expect of us.

8. Living absent-mindedly: Mindlessly going through life without intention or purpose is a common trap that many of us fall into. It is important to be present and mindful in each moment, making conscious decisions that align with our values and goals. Cultivating mindfulness now will not only benefit us immediately but also set us up for a fulfilling life in the future.

Looking back on my 20s, I realize that the decisions I made, both good and bad, have shaped who I am today. While I may have made mistakes and experienced challenges along the way, I am grateful for the lessons and growth they have provided. By giving up these nine things, I have created a life that aligns with my values, ambitions, and true self. As I continue to navigate my 20s, I am excited to see what the future holds and welcome the lessons and opportunities it brings.