At 21 all of us face or might have faced similar situations—whether it’s in a social setting, at the workplace or even at a club. Since I started working, I have a good routine set in place that helps me take responsibility and is slowly helping me grow. I have realized the importance of maintaining a balance in life because my career is a top priority for me and all I want to do is to excel and grow.

Here are five lessons I have learned in my life:

1. Building Blocks Of Your Career

This is the most crucial stage of your career because you are just starting out. Be a sponge and absorb all the opportunities around you. I started working 6 months ago full-time and honestly, I’m having the best time of my life. There is nothing greater than work and succeeding in my job for me. Even when I was studying earlier, I grabbed every opportunity that came in my way and did all kinds of internships. I’ve always believed that experience is greater than knowledge and I’m very grateful to get a chance to work with independent women like my boss, Malini Agarwal, and my senior, Shrutee Jadhav. Always remember, this is the time you focus more on developing your skills and creating a strong career foundation.

2. Your Family Is Your Rock

Very often, we tend to make our family our last priority because we are so busy balancing work and friends. You gotta remember that your family will support you endlessly and lift you up no matter what phase of life you’re in. Never hesitate to tell them anything because they are your best friends and their advice matters. For me, who I am today is all because my family gave me the freedom to choose my path and supported me through it. The key to a good relationship is, to tell the truth, and sharing your thoughts.

‘Other things may change us, but we start and end with the family.’ – Anthony Brandt

3. Love Yourself The Most ‘Cause Who Else Will?

Self-love is something I have adapted to recently. It’s the most important thing to learn in life. You cannot love anything or anyone till you love yourself genuinely. I make sure to take out at least an hour pampering myself, reading a book, watching shows or putting a facemask on and just chill. This is just my way of self-care. Sit, relax and think, are you doing enough to make yourself happy? If the answer is no, then you know what to focus on next! You are your own hero.

4. Friends Are Your Chosen Family

It’s on you to choose the right friends for yourself. Friends can be your backbone and your pillar through thick and thin. I love spending time with my friends after a long tiring day at work because I forget about all my stress. Having a big group of friends is not important because quality beats quantity all the time.

5. There Is No Such Thing As A ‘Perfect Relationship’

The flaws in your relationship are what makes it work. All your ups and downs will help you understand your SO better, and equip you to combat any other problems that might come your way. In my relationship, I have learned that space is the most essential. It’s the best feeling to have someone beside you constantly but, you need to know that maintaining personal space and your individuality is what’s best for your relationship. I am super grateful and content with what I have even if it isn’t perfect!

So, these were the main lessons I have learned as a 21-year-old. I have so much more to learn and develop and I’m looking forward to life! What are some of the lessons that life has taught you? Let me know in the comments below!

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