WHAT I WISH I KNEW WHEN I WAS 20

Growing up, we are not always privy to real life as our families want us to focus on being kids and study. College is when things slowly unravel. The way our lives flow from college to work and later life, I think the flow overlaps. We understand that things could have been better if we had learned them earlier on.
So I realised that certain things could have vastly changed if I had known them at age 20. One of the first things that I wish I knew was independence. For me, it means being able to think for myself & my issues on my own and keeping in mind that my family will be there for me.

How many start financial planning or even deal with banks, etc., only when we start working? Plenty of us! In fact, many women let the male family members handle their finances. Around age 20, taking care of & understanding my finances could have been done. These days youngsters start to earn from an early age, and handle their finances too. I wish I knew much more at an earlier stage.
Reading opens up your mind to endless possibilities. A well-developed reading habit at 20 could have worked differently for me. But there is no age to reading and learning.
I have been working in the field of media and public relations for some time. Like any other field, it has its share of politics and ego battles. At times, it makes sense to allow one to see some aspects of reality early. Age 20 would be the right time since you are on the cusp of real adulthood. Since many like me are trying to get near our career goals, it makes sense to get at least some heads up on this angle. Finding the right guide who lets you journey through the work politics with care sounds good. I met many individuals at a later stage of my career.
I always believe that the more you travel, the more you open up as a person. I travelled more during work. Yet when you are around 20, the things you discover stay with you and help you in developing your independent streak.
I always believe whatever happens in your life happens for the best. This could be a learning experience for many others.