Life does not come with an instruction manual. Fortunately, most of us learn from our mistakes!

We all mature at different rates, but by the time you reach your mid-twenties, you should have figured out the following 15 truths:

1. True friends are precious.

A good friend will listen to you, support you, assist you in getting out of trouble, and, when necessary, tell you the truth. They’re difficult to come by. When you find a true friend, make an effort to keep in touch with them.

2. Family can be a source of joy, but you don’t have to maintain toxic relationships.

Some people are fortunate to have positive relations with their relatives. Some family relationships, on the other hand, are harmful to your health. Even if they are a family member, it is acceptable to cut ties with abusive and toxic people.

3. Everyone fails.

Failure is unpleasant, but it is made tolerable when you realise that everyone makes mistakes – some are just better at hiding them than others. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake.

4. Life can change in a matter of moments.

Nobody can predict the future, which is part of what makes life so thrilling! Of course, you have some control over your destiny by choosing your partners, friends, and jobs, but there is a lot we can’t do. Expect the unexpected and be open to new experiences.

5. Everyone has their insecurities.

Do you have a low sense of self-worth? Do you find yourself berating yourself for your flaws? You’re not alone; it’s something that everyone does! Every human being, whether they admit it or not, has a few things they would change about themselves if they could. Accept yourself for who you are, good and bad.

6. There are more important things in life than your weight.

If you want to improve your energy levels, live longer, and reduce your risk of serious disease, a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise is a great idea. However, don’t make drastic lifestyle changes in the hopes of losing weight. Obsessing over the scales’ numbers will do nothing to boost your self-esteem. You are so much more than your weight or the size of your clothes.

7. To help others is to help yourself.

“It’s better to give than to receive,” as the saying goes, has some truth to it. It makes you feel great to help others, even if you don’t expect anything in return. Giving a helping hand to those in need helps you feel connected to your community and keeps you from getting too caught up in your own drama.

8. The happiest, most successful people never stop learning.

Learning doesn’t stop when you finish high school or college. Keeping your mind sharp requires exposure to new ideas and subjects. Learning a new skill gives you a sense of accomplishment, which boosts your self-esteem.

9. Nice guys don’t finish last.

Some people do succeed by deceiving others or bullying their way to the top. Fortunately, you can be extremely successful without being a jerk. You will gain respect and achieve your goals if you work hard, act with integrity, and treat everyone as you would like to be treated.

10. It’s pointless to hold on to a grudge.

It’s natural and acceptable to be angry when someone hurts you, but you must let go and move on. It’s pointless to resent someone for something they did a long time ago. It will only exacerbate your mental health problems and keep you trapped in the past.

11. Sometimes, it’s better to be happy than it is to be right.

It is not necessary to win every battle. Of course, if the issue at hand is extremely important to you, you should not back down or give in, but you will save a lot of time and effort if you can learn to let go of the minor details.

12. Time goes fast.

You never know when your time is up, so take advantage of every opportunity. Dream big set lofty goals, and relish the ride.

13. Your career doesn’t define who you are

We all spend a significant amount of time at work. Obviously, finding a job you enjoy and making the most of your working hours is a good idea. You, on the other hand, are more than a job title. Maintain a good work-life balance. There’s nothing wrong with diving headfirst into a career, but make sure you develop a personality separate from your work.

14. No one can tell you what to do with your life.

You were forced to listen to your parents and teachers when you were a child. You have the freedom to make your own decisions now that you’re an adult. Question the status quo. Others may offer helpful advice, but they may not always know what is best for you.

15. You don’t need to be religious, but you do need to find a sense of purpose in life.

The happiest people are aware of their own thoughts, have a strong set of values, and are aware of the type of legacy they want to leave. What is most important to you? What kind of global impact do you want to make? You’ll find it easier to decide what you want to do with your time on Earth once you know the answers to these questions.

You will make mistakes and take the wrong path from time to time, but learn to forgive yourself.

Everyone grows older and wiser, but no one has all the answers. Over the last five years, you’ve most likely matured and grown a lot. You’ll look back in five or ten years and be amazed at how far you’ve come. Humans have an incredible capacity for change and growth. Embrace the journey.