Protecting Your Heart & Mind During Your Twenties: Tips from a Licensed Therapist & Life Coach
Navigating life during your twenties can be both exciting and overwhelming. From graduating college to entering the workforce, starting new relationships to managing finances – this decade is full of potential and potential pitfalls. When faced with these new experiences, it’s essential to protect your heart and mind.
In my years as a licensed therapist and certified life coach in New Orleans, I’ve seen countless college students, young professionals, and millennials struggle to balance their mental health while treading the waters of adulthood. If I could go back and tell my younger self one thing, it would be this: never forget to take care of yourself first.
These years go quickly - even when it feels like they’re dragging - so it’s important to recognize mental health warning signs before matters take a turn for the worse.
Let's look at 10 things I'd tell myself to protect my heart and mind during my twenties.
1. "Don't be afraid to express your feelings."
When something feels wrong, it’s essential to take the time to identify exactly what you are feeling and express it in a healthy way. Find a trusted friend or family member who can lend an open ear and offer support as needed. These conversations don’t have to be long and drawn out; even five minutes of venting can help you feel better.
2. “Practice self-care whenever possible.”
Self-care is an essential part of mental health upkeep during your twenties. Make sure you are focusing on yourself and engaging in activities that make you feel good. Exercise, meditate, and do something creative – whatever works for you! In college, this can look like taking a break from studying to have lunch with friends or going for a quick walk between classes.
3. “Be mindful of how you talk to yourself.”
We all create internal dialogue, and it’s crucial to be mindful of how you are talking to yourself. If your inner monologue is constantly negative or pessimistic, it can take a toll on your mental health.
Not sure if your self-talk is healthy? Go back to those trusted individuals in tip #1 and ask them for feedback on how you talk to yourself. They'll be able to provide perspective and help make you aware of any unhealthy habits.
4. “Know your boundaries and advocate for them.”
It’s easy to get swept away in the excitement of new experiences, but it’s important to remember that you have control over how much you give of yourself.
If something is making you uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to speak up about it. Knowing your boundaries and advocating for them will help you keep a healthy sense of self in any situation.
5. “Set incremental goals, and don't shame yourself for not achieving them.”
Setting goals and taking action to achieve them is a great way to increase your sense of accomplishment during your twenties. That said, try not to be too hard on yourself if you don’t meet every milestone in the timeline you've set. Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small, and use it to propel you forward.
6. “Invest in others more, and offer help if needed.”
While setting those goals (#5) is important, don't forget about the people around you! Building meaningful relationships is a key part of self-care, and investing in your friends’ success can help boost your own. If someone close to you is struggling with mental health, family issues, or anything else, offer your support without hesitation.
7. “Be open to change and new ideas.”
The beauty of your twenties is that you are constantly growing and learning. Don’t be afraid to explore different avenues, try new activities, and broaden your horizons.
Remaining open-minded can help you learn valuable lessons from unexpected situations and further develop yourself as a person. That unexpected opportunity could be the one that leads to great success - if not a memorable moment that carries you through difficult times later in life.
8. “Get as much rest and sleep as you can.”
Okay, I know I just mentioned being open to new ideas, but don't go overboard! During your twenties, it’s important to make sure that you’re taking the time to rest and recuperate.
Make it a point to create a consistent sleeping schedule where you get at least seven hours of sleep every night. If you can set good habits now, you’ll be thankful for them later.
9. “Trust yourself to make it to tomorrow."
As young professionals in a chaotic world, it can be hard to stay optimistic. But the truth is that you are capable of so much more than you know, and you have the power to make a positive change in your life.
Believe in yourself and trust that even if things don’t go as planned, you will make it through to tomorrow.
10. "Ask for help - even professional help - when you need it."
Stigmas abound when it comes to mental health, and it can be hard to ask for help. But don't hesitate to reach out if you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your emotions.
Friends, family members, and even professionals can support you in difficult times. The important thing is to remember that seeking help doesn’t make you weak - it makes you brave. And when things seem unbearable, don’t be afraid to reach out to a therapist or life coach to seek freedom.
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Overall, your twenties are a time of great potential and possibility. It’s the perfect moment to start taking care of yourself in new ways, so use these tips to get started on creating a healthier, happier version of yourself!
Use this decade as a launching pad for the life you want to live, and remember that we are here to support you every step of the way. If you ever feel lost in the chaos or need advice, don't be afraid to reach out. At my practice in New Orleans, I work with young professionals just like you to get your life back on track. With proven methods and practical wisdom, you can utilize psychotherapy and life coaching to reach your goals.
Ready to take the first step? Reach out today, and let’s start the conversation about how I can help you get where you want to be.
Dr. Eileen Wynne