Many people find themselves lost during their 20s, grappling with questions about career paths, health, finances, and overall life purpose. Reflecting on his own experiences at the age of 45, Chad shares ten crucial life lessons that he wishes he had learned earlier. These insights, relevant to individuals of all ages, provide valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of adulthood.
Chad starts with a hard-hitting realization: take your health seriously from a young age. In his 20s, he neglected his nutrition, leading to health issues that compounded over time. He emphasizes that, unlike the invincibility felt at 20, one becomes acutely aware of the physical toll stress and poor dietary choices take as time progresses. He urges young people to embrace healthy habits—such as adequate sleep, balanced diets, and regular exercise—while they still have the energy and ability to do so. According to him, maintaining good health is far easier than trying to recover from an unhealthy lifestyle.
The second lesson focuses on the often-unpopular truth that “your employer doesn’t care about you.” Chad recounts experiences of overworking in exchange for empty promises of job security. He learned the harsh reality that most employers prioritize profits over employee wellbeing. His numerous back injuries serve as painful reminders that one can be easily replaced in the corporate machinery. Chad warns against sacrificing your health and happiness for an employer who sees you as a mere cog in a wheel.
Following these insights, Chad delves into the importance of financial literacy and investment. He urges the necessity of investing in your future—whether through the stock market, rental properties, or other avenues. While he acknowledges different economic conditions than in his 20s, he stresses that the foundational principle of investing early remains unchanged. Time is a critical asset; it allows for risk-taking and recovery that can lead to long-term financial stability.
Chad emphasizes that taking risks is easier when you’re younger. The cushion of youth allows for experimentation and recovery from failures without the weight of adult responsibilities. Moving out, trying new jobs, or starting a business in your 20s brings far less consequence than similar actions might carry later in life when financial and familial obligations mount. The message is clear: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone while you have the flexibility to do so.
Chad’s fifth lesson addresses the culture of nightlife—“the bars are always going to be there.” He reflects on how many people sacrifice their potential for a fleeting thrill, spending money on drinks and experiences that yield little in return. Instead of using weekends to indulge in excessive partying, he proposes reallocating that money toward investments, education, or self-improvement. This conscious shift not only guarantees better financial health but also fosters personal growth and achievement.
In a world filled with external expectations, Chad emphasizes the importance of understanding that “you don’t owe anything to anyone.” The pressure to conform to societal standards or to seek validation from peers can lead to stagnation. This vital insight encourages individuals to carve their own paths rather than feel obligated to meet the expectations of others.
Create Memories, Not Material Possessions
Chad advises placing value on experiences over possessions. He believes memories enrich life far beyond material goods, particularly as life accelerates with age. He urges young people to focus on creating enduring memories with loved ones, advising against getting bogged down by the pursuit of “stuff.” Instead, he encourages embracing opportunities that create meaningful moments.
Building upon the previous lessons, Chad highlights that making sound, prudent financial choices reduces stress and fosters meaningful relationships. He illustrates how delaying gratification leads not only to financial freedom but also to an easier and more joyful life with those you love.
The Importance of Continuous Learning
Chad concluded his lessons with a reflection on the importance of skill development and continuous learning. He recounts his own experiences in the plumbing industry and how failing to adapt led him to miss out on opportunities. Whether through formal education or self-taught skills, the ability to develop and expand one's capabilities is crucial for long-term success and satisfaction.
As he reflects on these lessons, Chad emphasizes the overarching principle that time is fleeting. What may feel like an eternity in youth quickly transitions into the blink of an eye in adulthood. Recognizing the speed at which life passes can motivate individuals to act intentionally, invest wisely, and prioritize relationships and health.
These reflections bear relevance far beyond the age of 20, resonating with anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of adult life more effectively.
Part 1/9:
10 Life Lessons I Wish I Knew in My 20s
Many people find themselves lost during their 20s, grappling with questions about career paths, health, finances, and overall life purpose. Reflecting on his own experiences at the age of 45, Chad shares ten crucial life lessons that he wishes he had learned earlier. These insights, relevant to individuals of all ages, provide valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of adulthood.
Prioritize Nutrition
Part 2/9:
Chad starts with a hard-hitting realization: take your health seriously from a young age. In his 20s, he neglected his nutrition, leading to health issues that compounded over time. He emphasizes that, unlike the invincibility felt at 20, one becomes acutely aware of the physical toll stress and poor dietary choices take as time progresses. He urges young people to embrace healthy habits—such as adequate sleep, balanced diets, and regular exercise—while they still have the energy and ability to do so. According to him, maintaining good health is far easier than trying to recover from an unhealthy lifestyle.
Employer Loyalty is a Mirage
Part 3/9:
The second lesson focuses on the often-unpopular truth that “your employer doesn’t care about you.” Chad recounts experiences of overworking in exchange for empty promises of job security. He learned the harsh reality that most employers prioritize profits over employee wellbeing. His numerous back injuries serve as painful reminders that one can be easily replaced in the corporate machinery. Chad warns against sacrificing your health and happiness for an employer who sees you as a mere cog in a wheel.
Invest Early
Part 4/9:
Following these insights, Chad delves into the importance of financial literacy and investment. He urges the necessity of investing in your future—whether through the stock market, rental properties, or other avenues. While he acknowledges different economic conditions than in his 20s, he stresses that the foundational principle of investing early remains unchanged. Time is a critical asset; it allows for risk-taking and recovery that can lead to long-term financial stability.
Embrace Risks in Youth
Part 5/9:
Chad emphasizes that taking risks is easier when you’re younger. The cushion of youth allows for experimentation and recovery from failures without the weight of adult responsibilities. Moving out, trying new jobs, or starting a business in your 20s brings far less consequence than similar actions might carry later in life when financial and familial obligations mount. The message is clear: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone while you have the flexibility to do so.
Bars are Tempting but Costly
Part 6/9:
Chad’s fifth lesson addresses the culture of nightlife—“the bars are always going to be there.” He reflects on how many people sacrifice their potential for a fleeting thrill, spending money on drinks and experiences that yield little in return. Instead of using weekends to indulge in excessive partying, he proposes reallocating that money toward investments, education, or self-improvement. This conscious shift not only guarantees better financial health but also fosters personal growth and achievement.
You Owe No One
Part 7/9:
In a world filled with external expectations, Chad emphasizes the importance of understanding that “you don’t owe anything to anyone.” The pressure to conform to societal standards or to seek validation from peers can lead to stagnation. This vital insight encourages individuals to carve their own paths rather than feel obligated to meet the expectations of others.
Create Memories, Not Material Possessions
Chad advises placing value on experiences over possessions. He believes memories enrich life far beyond material goods, particularly as life accelerates with age. He urges young people to focus on creating enduring memories with loved ones, advising against getting bogged down by the pursuit of “stuff.” Instead, he encourages embracing opportunities that create meaningful moments.
Part 8/9:
Financial Prudence Leads to Freedom
Building upon the previous lessons, Chad highlights that making sound, prudent financial choices reduces stress and fosters meaningful relationships. He illustrates how delaying gratification leads not only to financial freedom but also to an easier and more joyful life with those you love.
The Importance of Continuous Learning
Chad concluded his lessons with a reflection on the importance of skill development and continuous learning. He recounts his own experiences in the plumbing industry and how failing to adapt led him to miss out on opportunities. Whether through formal education or self-taught skills, the ability to develop and expand one's capabilities is crucial for long-term success and satisfaction.
Part 9/9:
Conclusion: Time is Precious
As he reflects on these lessons, Chad emphasizes the overarching principle that time is fleeting. What may feel like an eternity in youth quickly transitions into the blink of an eye in adulthood. Recognizing the speed at which life passes can motivate individuals to act intentionally, invest wisely, and prioritize relationships and health.
These reflections bear relevance far beyond the age of 20, resonating with anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of adult life more effectively.