5 Biggest Takeaways From My 20's

Sometimes you win in life, and sometimes you learn.

Sowmya Mupparaju
Writers’ Blokke

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Photo by Peter Conlan on Unsplash

This year I’m turning 30 and instead of the usual excitement and eagerness right before my birthday, I’m quite calm and relaxed, finding joy in the little things. I lost a dear friend this year, and I feel that life is so unfair and that maybe we should start experiencing and appreciating even more in every way possible with what we have.

Your Time Is Limited, So Don’t Waste It Living Someone Else’s Life. → Steve Jobs

Living peacefully for as long as we have left is all that matters.

So here I am.. With these learnings, I bring my 20's to a close

Become Aware Of What’s Worth Your Time

Several times in the last few years, I’ve been forced to remain in awkward situations. It is very normal for friends and colleagues to come and go in your life and that is okay. Spend your time just where and when it is necessary. Avoid meaningless friendships, forced interactions, and unnecessary conversations. Understand the importance of family, money, and a few good friends.

Love Your Work & Team But Not Your Company

Work is a never-ending process that can wait til the next day. A company’s interests are important, and so are the interests of your family and friends. Overworking should no longer be encouraged. Being unable to spend quality time with family or enjoy good food is not something to be proud of.

Realize That People Will Resent You No Matter What.

There is no point in telling everyone who you are or what you are like. No matter how much you try, it can’t change how people perceive you. You will not be liked by everyone, so let negative people dislike you and move on. The less you respond the better your life will be.

It’s Okay to Fail At Times.

I was rejected for a job opportunity more than a couple of times this year. Initially, I was dejected but later viewed it as a learning experience. There is nothing wrong with failing or giving up. Sometimes everything goes south on you and that’s okay. Stay focused and it will all be worth it in the end.

Constructive Criticism Is Your Friend.

One of the critical learning that contributed towards my personal growth. It was never easy for me to accept constructive criticism like a champ. Despite the initial suffocation, always keep in mind the benefits it offers. At the end of the day, constructive criticism builds the right attitude and mindset. It ensures you accomplish larger things in life. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with taking criticism personally. Taking it personally shows you are serious about it.

Final Thoughts:

Be free of negativity. Decide for yourself. What is yours will always find you.

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Sowmya Mupparaju
Writers’ Blokke

Senior Software Engineer @Apple | A Farmer's Daughter I Columbia MBA