A special message to the young generation who just received their high school diploma, college, or university degree.
This morning, I logged into Facebook for a few minutes and saw that the high school I attended had posted photos from their final exam certificate ceremony. The first thought that hit me was shocking: I received my diploma 21 years ago, when these students were not even born. Sometimes it is surprising to look in the mirror—while I do not feel like I am aging, clearly, I am. My second thought turned into reflection. Looking back on your life, there is a strong chance you will carry at least a few regrets about decisions you made, paths you did not take, or how you behaved when you were too young to know better.
After seeing those photos, I continued my day with my morning yoga. That was when the idea fully formed: I must share the regrets and advice I would give to my younger, twenty-something self. I am turning 40 in a month, which feels like the perfect moment to reflect on what I have learned so far—and what no school ever taught me.
Below, I share my personal life experiences across three main areas: mindset, healthset, and financial life.
Mindset
I am grateful to my parents and teachers for everything they taught me. Still, no one ever explained the fundamental basics of life. Until the age of 36, I felt like I lived instinctively, almost like a wild animal—driven by emotions, lacking control, and overwhelmed by negativity. I often felt neglected, unlucky, frustrated, and unmotivated. Eventually, I reached a breaking point. That was when I began working seriously on myself. I started searching for answers about purpose, happiness, fulfillment, and desire.
- Higher education is valuable, especially since society measures competence through degrees when applying for jobs. However, it will not teach you how to live happily or fulfill your desires. The education system sells the idea that life equals a perfect degree, stable employment, benefits, a house, and children. While studying math, biology, or literature, also read authors like Rhonda Byrne, Robin Sharma, or my recent favorite, Jen Sincero. Learn not only the science of facts but the science of living life fully.
- Stay youthful, even in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. Aging is inevitable—wrinkles appear, hair turns gray, and birthday cakes gain candles. Still, feeling old is optional. Laugh often, live playfully, and approach life with curiosity. This mindset reduces stress, boosts mood, and keeps you energized.
- Classmates are fine to stay in touch with, but over time, you may realize you are no longer in the same “boat.” Surround yourself with positive, active, uplifting people who reflect the life you want. Strong friendships elevate you to higher levels.
- Be honest and noble in everything you do. No matter your profession, do your work with heart and excellence.
- Forget fear and ignore anyone who says something is “not possible.” If your mind is strong enough, nothing is impossible. When you dream, pursue it relentlessly. Fail, adjust, and continue. Confidence grows through persistence.
- Embrace simplicity. Do not overcomplicate life. Keep every area as minimalist as possible, and you will experience more calm and less stress.
- Explore, travel, and experience life beyond your hometown or country. Traveling builds memories, cultural awareness, language skills, and deep life wisdom.
- Spend time in nature. Even a short walk in a park restores energy. I take mini holidays two or three times a week—reading in my garden, sunbathing, or simply switching off. These moments create balance and peace.
- Start journaling. I maintain two journals: a gratitude journal and a bullet journal. Each morning, I write ten things I am grateful for. In my bullet journal, I track goals, finances, emotions, and plans. This practice changed my life.
- Do not fear asking questions. You always have the right to ask. Two years ago, one question I hesitated to ask earned me $5,000. You may talk yourself out of asking a date, saying, you have no chance – because of the lack of your self-confidence. What if your date is expecting actually the question to go out together? Imagine what one brave question can do and what consequence it can have if you do not ask that question.
- Languages matter. I wish I had taken them more seriously in school. Today, English is one of the most valuable life assets. With it, you can travel confidently and build international businesses. Apps like DuoLingo make learning accessible—I started Spanish six months ago and used it in Paraguay and Mexico. If you can, attend on a language class, that brings results even quicker.
- Focus on daily improvement. Small actions compound into extraordinary results. Learn for 15–30 minutes daily, exercise briefly, and read consistently.
- Practice living in the moment. I still work on this. Worry steals presence. Remind yourself consciously to enjoy now and worry later. Read the books of Eckhart Tolle in this topic!
- Talk less and listen more. Respect others by being fully present in conversation.
- Do not worry about what others think. Follow your dreams.
Healthset
This is an area where I continue learning. I do not consider myself extremely fit, yet I feel good physically and mentally. I know that conscious choices can improve health and even reverse many issues.
- Your mindset influences how old you look. Speak kindly to yourself. Every morning, I affirm that I am fit, healthy, and youthful—and people often tell me I look 25. It works.
- Your body is not indestructible. Poor lifting habits in your 20s show consequences later.
- Start yoga early. Years of sitting caused serious stiffness for me. Two years of yoga reversed much of the damage. I recommend the DailyYoga app.
- Educate yourself about health hacks. Reduce processed meat and dairy. Stay open to new research.
- Do not skip breakfast. A protein-rich morning meal stabilizes hunger and cravings. Update from 2026: I actually feel better now skipping breakfast often and have a lunch and a breakfast together. Tried since intermittent fasting and I feel more energetic with.
- Smoking is dangerous. I smoked until age 33 and quit when my body forced me to. Read my post and stop today.
- Consider a plant-based or vegan lifestyle. Read “How Not to Die” by Michael Greger. Veganism improves health, consciousness, and compassion. Update from 2026: Two years ago I started re-introducing some milk products to my diet, so I am a vegetarian now. Some countries are just not prepared for vegans and I had enough of only eating oily French fries – for necessity as there were no other options – on my travels.
- Alcohol should be minimal. One glass of red wine is the safe limit; more damages organs.
- Sleep 7–7.5 hours, wake early, meditate, journal, and eat well.
- Social media is not real life. Reduce scrolling and invest time in learning skills. Read my post.
- Invest in mental health professionals when needed. Coaching changed my life.
- Research the Wim Hof Method. Cold exposure and breathing boost immunity.
- Your body is your temple. Treat it accordingly.
Financial Life
Wealth and ownership follow patterns. Learn from those who already live the life you want. These principles are not taught in schools—but they are written in books.
- Have one well-paid job rather than multiple low-paid ones. Businesses can be multiple.
- Avoid debt. Buy only what you can afford.
- Educate yourself financially. Read “The Science of Getting Rich” and “Rich Dad Poor Dad.”
- I rejected mortgages and loans. Between 36 and 40, I achieved near financial freedom. The digital nomad lifestyle may suit you too.
- Always save. Do not increase spending with income.
- Give to those in need. I now donate 5–10% of my income and noticed abundance returns.
- Learn about investments. Cryptocurrency is my personal favorite.
- Employment is safe, but entrepreneurship builds your dream.
- Forget the phrase “I can’t afford it.” Learn financial mastery.
These lessons come from experience. Learn from my mistakes instead of repeating them. Be your own boss, and I wish you a successful life.
I need your help! Please share this page with your friends, spread the word, and help them start life right. I would also love to hear your thoughts—comment below and tell me which tip resonated with you most and why.
