Entering your 20s often brings a profound dilemma: at this pivotal stage of life, should you prioritize earning money or pursuing freedom? Should you choose a stable, high-paying job to quickly build wealth, or should you follow your heart and chase your own freedom and passions?
In truth, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Everyone’s life path, values, and goals differ. But I believe there is one fundamental principle worth serious reflection and practice for all young people: in your youth, the most important thing is not money, nor is it immediate freedom—it’s the courage to experiment and embrace the growth process.
1. Youth Is the Most Valuable Time to Explore and Take Risks
Your 20s are the golden years for trial and error and self-exploration. During this period, what you should do most is try out a wide range of possibilities quickly and in large volumes—guided by your interests, hobbies, and ideas. Don’t fear taking risks, don’t be confined by so-called “hot industries” or “high-income jobs,” and don’t be overly obsessed with stability or security.
From my own experience, the most precious wealth at this stage is gaining experience and growth—not the numbers in your bank account. I tried many interesting part-time jobs and roles, from working at a small shop during my school days, to club activities in university, to various full-time jobs after graduation. Every role I chose was driven by curiosity and genuine interest, not external pressure or short-term gain.
Because my choices were rooted in passion, the pressure to learn was naturally less. Many skills and habits developed unconsciously and persisted over time. This intrinsic motivation cannot be replaced by any external reward.
2. From Passion to Career: My Journey with Blogging and Freelancing
Take blogging as an example. In the early days, I traveled frequently for work, often staying up past 1 a.m. in hotels, still writing and updating my blog despite exhaustion. Those years were tough but incredibly fulfilling and laid the foundation for self-driven habits.
After about five or six years, I gradually transitioned to freelancing. It was then I realized that social media and content creation weren’t just passions—they also held real opportunities for monetization. This realization came naturally because my initial focus was never on making money, but on delivering quality content and value to my readers.
Therefore, don’t rush to prioritize money when you’re young. First, find what you truly love and are willing to dedicate time and energy to. Only passion can sustain you long-term and eventually build your unique competitiveness and influence.
3. Trial and Error Is the Greatest Asset in Your 20s
After graduating from university, you face many choices: Where will you live? Where do you want to work? What kind of person do you want to become? These are critical questions, but don’t let the fear of failure stop you from moving forward.
The only real failure in your 20s is inaction. Everything else is just trial and error. This stage is meant for making mistakes and accumulating experience.
Remember, the best way to learn is to surround yourself with people who truly get things done. Working, learning, and growing alongside them means that even if you slip up, you can quickly recalibrate. The best way to avoid repeating mistakes is through constant practice, reflection, and improvement.
4. Choose an Environment That Fuels Growth Over Titles or Salary
At this stage, titles and money aren’t as important as the people you’re around and the work you do. You should seek places that promote growth—environments that expose you to fresh ideas and challenges.
Opportunities are the most critical currency for young people. Don’t get caught up in chasing a “high starting point” while neglecting the importance of experience and process. These experiences will lay a solid foundation for your future development.
5. Set Ambitious Goals and Keep Moving Forward
The most important thing in your youth is to set a clear goal—even if it feels distant and unattainable—that resonates deeply with your inner desires.
The journey to your dream will be challenging and difficult, but as long as you keep moving forward and persevere, you will grow and transform throughout the process.
Don’t take shortcuts or shy away from difficulties. Facing challenges and failures head-on is the fastest way to learn and grow.
6. After 30 or 40, the Window for Trial and Error Closes
Once you reach your 30s and 40s, the window for trial and error gradually closes. Responsibilities grow heavier, time and opportunities become limited, and you can no longer make decisions as freely as you did in your 20s.
So make the most of this time while you’re young. Use failure and experimentation to accumulate experience and capabilities to build a strong foundation for the future. Failure is not scary; the real failure is never trying.
7. Understand the Meaning of Giving Your All When Young
When you’re young, it’s easy to think you know everything and have all the answers, only to realize later that you don’t really know what you want.
At this point, you need to find a place where you can give your all—where the pressure forces you to learn, grow, and adjust. This place might not be perfect, but it will help you discover yourself and your direction for the future.
8. Money and Freedom Are Not Opposites in Your 20s
In your 20s, making money and having freedom are not mutually exclusive—they complement each other.
Money provides resources and security, while freedom gives you the space to explore interests and try new things. You don’t have to choose one now—you can create possibilities for earning money without giving up freedom.
As long as you keep curiosity and adventurous spirit alive, and bravely try new things, money and freedom will find a balance that suits your life path.
Your 20s are the best time to experiment, explore, and grow. Neither making money nor having freedom should be your sole goal. Instead, follow your passions, embrace challenges, and keep practicing and learning.
Your future self will thank you for daring to take risks and stick to your dreams today.