Today All Groan Up welcomes a guest post from Ellen Ross. Enjoy! 

We’re constantly reminded to enjoy our 20’s because they are the best years of our life, but it’s also the most important decade to grow ourselves as individuals.

Since you can still have fun while challenging yourself here are 8 things you should accomplish in your 20’s in an effort to make the most of these glorious years!

1. Conquer a Big Fear

When I say a big fear, I mean bigger than watching a scary movie. Fear is something that can hold us back from a enjoyable life so while you’re young and spry you might as well attack those fears.   If you’re afraid of heights, learn to get used to them even just for a day.  If you’re afraid of clowns, shake hands with one the next time you ‘re at a parade or circus. I used to be afraid of flying, mostly because I had never flown before, so I made sure I took a trip on a plane in my 20’s and now I don’t even flinch at the thought of flying.  Conquering a big fear not only gives you bragging rights, but you get to enter into your 30’s with one an accomplishment under your belt.

2. Learn to Speak Another Love Language

This skill will get you so much further in life no matter how old you are.  It will make the people in your life feel more loved and in turn you’ll feel better about yourself.  Learn about the different love languages (gifts, words, affection, tasks, time) and figure out what your primary language is.  What actions or words from another person make you feel loved?  What’s the love language of the special person in your life? If it’s different from yours, learn how to speak it.  It will only make you radiate and grow as a person, so don’t make excuses.

3. Learn How to Change a Flat Tire

If you already know how to change a flat then pat yourself on the back!  If you don’t, then it’s time to get to work; watch a YouTube tutorial, read instructions, and practice!  You never know when this skill may come in handy, even if it’s just helping someone you see stranded on the side of the road.  Besides, once you’re 30, you’re more likely to get laughed at if someone finds out you can’t change a flat tire to save your life.

 4. Learn to Meditate

Meditating is a process that takes practice and patience, but once you accomplish it, you’ll feel amazing.   Meditation helps you learn to relax, quiet your thoughts, and live in the present moment.  I began meditating at the age of 27, but I wish I had learned much sooner. With all of the technology in our fast paced world, most of us keep our minds constantly occupied even when we think we’re relaxing.   It’s therapeutic and highly beneficial to your mental health to meditate.  So embrace it and learn to stop, breathe, and take in the world around you as you live in the present moment.

 5. Buy Yourself a Splurge Gift

Is there something that you’ve coveted for years like a gorgeous handbag, a glamorous pair of shoes, or even an amazing piece of home décor?  As long as you can find a way to save up the money to put towards it, go ahead and make that purchase.  I was obsessed with a designer handbag for the longest time so when I finally saved the money to buy it for myself I made a big fuss about it.  I wrapped it in paper and waited till Christmas to open it.  I even had a note inside addressed to and signed by ME!  Everyone deserves to spoil themselves once in a while, I mean you made it this far in life and you’re still here! Don’t be afraid to congratulate yourself with a nice gift!

6. Learn to Be Alone with Yourself and Enjoy it

Some people can’t stand being alone in life and they don’t realize how exhausting that is. Whether it’s the boredom that bothers you or the loneliness that scares you, get over it and start enjoying it.  Schedule a “me day” once a week where you turn down plans with anyone and everyone.  Then pick a project or hobby to keep yourself busy.   Enjoy your own company and don’t be concerned what everyone else is up to on their Facebook page!

7. Step out of your Comfort Zone in a Relationship

Do something that’s outside of your safe zone in a relationship; something that benefits the both of you even if it’s not easy to do. If you’re a reserved person, try to be more outspoken by giving more compliments and expressing your feelings to your partner.  Take this a step further and do this in any relationship – whether it be a significant other, a coworker, or a close friend.  Once you do it a few times, it becomes a habit and you’ll soon discover that being more outspoken becomes part of your comfort zone.  It’s not that hard, I promise.

8. Ban the phrase “That’s just how I am” from your vocabulary. Forever.

Saying “That’s just how I am” is an excuse.  It’s generally used as an explanation for why we shouldn’t have to change, even if it’s for the better. If you aren’t going out of your way to be a better person to others, than you should take a good look at yourself.  Is going out of your comfort zone and being nicer really going to do any harm to you?  Stop making excuses and conforming to what society thinks is okay.

Be different, be better, and enjoy the benefits of making the lives of those around you more pleasant.

We’d love to hear from you: what’s one thing you think twentysomethings need to accomplish?

Ellen Ross is a 27 year old blogger living in Pennsylvania.  Her blog, Ask Away (www.askawayblog.com link) covers topics from fashion and relationships to budgets and organizing a home.  When she’s not working full time or writing her blog, she enjoys spending time with her 4 Chihuahuas.