YC
How To Make The Most Out of Your 20s
@ Y Combinator
12/05/24
Takeaways
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Social media can create unrealistic expectations, making you feel like everyone else is living a better life, which can distort your goals and aspirations.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
You should not rush through the enjoyable experiences in life; instead, take your time to appreciate them and allow for more opportunities in the future.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
It's essential to intentionally delay gratification in your 20s to leave room for future opportunities and avoid the trap of constantly seeking immediate rewards.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Living your 20s to the fullest means doing the most hardcore things early in your career, as it's easier to mellow out later than to ramp up ambition after being too relaxed.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
In your 20s, it's crucial to be risk-seeking rather than risk-averse, as you have fewer responsibilities and more freedom to explore opportunities.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Many people in their 20s are told to avoid risks, but doing something perceived as risky, like starting a business, can lead to significant personal growth.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
It's important to explicitly discuss and understand the worst-case scenarios of taking risks, as this can help alleviate fear and clarify your options.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
The worst-case scenario isn't as bad as you think; if you take a risk and it doesn't work out, you can always find another job.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Your 20s are the first time you can truly follow your own plan, separate from your parents' expectations, and it's important to question that plan.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Surrounding yourself with positive, ambitious peers can significantly influence your mindset and decisions, shaping your identity and aspirations.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Your personality is largely shaped by the people you spend the most time with, so choose your peers wisely to foster a positive and ambitious environment. You can choose to spend more time with people who align with the person you want to become, especially if you're interested in startups.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
If you want to change your life, consider changing your environment, including where you work and live, as your 20s are a great time for making significant decisions that primarily affect you.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Your strong friendships can survive distance and infrequent contact, so changing where you live or who you live with may not be as risky as you think.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
In your 20s, seeking long-term relationships can be beneficial, as having a supportive partner can enhance your ability to work hard and achieve your goals.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Being in stable relationships is a valuable skill to develop in your 20s, as it prepares you for future commitments and can positively impact your life.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Investments made in your 20s, whether good or bad, tend to have long-lasting effects on your life, so it's crucial to make thoughtful choices during this decade.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Even if you didn't attend a prestigious school, you can still find opportunities by identifying workplaces with interesting people and getting your foot in the door.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Getting hired at smaller startups can be easier than at larger companies, and once you're in, you can connect with talented individuals and soak up the culture.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
12/05/24
@ Y Combinator
Don't be the 30-year-old who looks back and wonders what happened to their 20s; the most successful people often lay their foundations during this decade.