The Defining Decade by Meg Jay

1. Recognize the value of your twenties

Your twenties are a formative period and an opportunity for growth. This is the time to lay the groundwork for your future. Please don't dismiss this decade as an extended adolescence; treat it thoughtfully and purposefully.

"Twentysomethings who don't feel anxious and incompetent at work are usually overconfident or underemployed." - Meg Jay

2. Embrace the 'identity capital'

'Identity Capital' is the collection of personal assets we assemble over time. These could be skills, experiences, or networks that define us. Actively invest in your 'Identity Capital.'

"Identity capital is our collection of personal assets. It is the repertoire of individual resources that we assemble over time." - Meg Jay

3. Make intentional choices

Avoid drifting into jobs or relationships. Make deliberate choices about your career and personal life. Even if you're unsure, make the best decision with the information you have.

"Our twenties are the defining decade of adulthood. 80% of life's most defining moments take place by about age 35." - Meg Jay

4. Prioritize meaningful relationships

Don't neglect relationships in your twenties. Invest in relationships that add value to your life, whether it's your family, friends, or romantic partner.

"The urban tribe is overrated. Best friends are great for giving rides to the airport, but twentysomethings who huddle together with like-minded peers limit who they know, what they know, how they think, and what they do." - Meg Jay

5. Develop emotional health

Your twenties are an excellent time to develop emotional health. Seek help if you're dealing with mental health issues. Learn to manage stress and build resilience.

"Neglecting to work on your emotional health in your twenties can have long-term consequences that can be difficult to reverse." - Meg Jay

6. Actively plan your future

Don't leave your fate to chance. Start envisioning and planning for your thirties. Having a sense of direction helps you make better decisions in your twenties.

"The future isn't written in the stars. There are no guarantees. So claim your adulthood. Be intentional. Get to work. Pick your family. Do the math. Make your own certainty." - Meg Jay

7. Be patient

Success doesn't come overnight. It takes time and persistence. Be patient and consistent in your efforts.

"You can't pick your family, but you can pick your therapists and you can pick your partners and you can pick your friends. You are the architect of your future." - Meg Jay

8. Take calculated risks

Your twenties are the perfect time to take risks. Whether starting a new job, moving to a new city, or starting a business, use this time to step out of your comfort zone.

"Twentysomethings are like airplanes just leaving LAX bound for somewhere west. Right after takeoff, a slight change in course is the difference between landing in Alaska or Fiji." - Meg Jay

9. Prioritize your physical health

Adopt healthy habits in your twenties. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper sleep can set the stage for lifelong wellness.

"Our twenties are the time to get into the habit of taking care of our bodies with regular exercise and eating right." - Meg Jay

10. Continue learning and growing

Never stop learning. Seek opportunities to learn new skills or gain new experiences. Continuous learning is a key to personal and professional development.

"The twentysomething years are a whole new way of thinking about time. There's this big chunk of time and a whole bunch of stuff needs to happen somehow." - Meg Jay