What you Prioritize in your 20s and 30s Matter.

Mind. Body. Wealth.

We’re on a chase. A chase to stand out, to get rich, to have our Rockstar moments, and much more. In today’s modern world, spending hours glued to our PCs and work desks has become the norm. For many, the ultimate goals are money and fame. But let’s agree on a simple fact: What are we compromising in the process? The answer is clear: our health – mental, physical, and social.

So, you work hard, earn all that cash, and then end up paying it back with interest at the hospital. Are we sacrificing our health on the path to wealth creation? Not everyone, but some do get lost in the process. They become so accustomed to their routines that physical and mental discomfort become the new normal.

So, how do you tackle this? Speaking from personal experience, during my early 20s, after completing my master’s in finance and starting my full-time job, I was ambitious with a ‘conquer the world’ mindset. But after a few years, burnout set in. I was losing grip on myself – my early morning routine disappeared, healthy eating became a distant memory, and I experienced blackouts. That’s when I made a brave decision to take some time off and refocus on restoring my healthy routine, both physically and mentally. It worked wonders. I could think clearly, strategize effectively, make the right investments, and stay focused. Within three months, my investments thrived, and both my professional and personal life were brighter than ever.

Getting finances sorted is important, but even more vital is getting your life sorted first.
In your 20s and 30s, it’s easy to become entrapped in the chase for success. The pressure to excel in your career, build a thriving financial portfolio, and climb the ladder of achievement can be overwhelming. But at what cost? Neglecting your well-being, both physical and mental, and sacrificing your social life can lead to consequences that far outweigh any material gains.

Imagine this: You’re on a trajectory of non-stop work, late nights, and limited sleep. You’re trading hours of rest for more hours at your desk, thinking it’s the path to wealth. It might work for a while, but sooner or later, the cracks will show. Burnout, stress, anxiety, and even health issues can take their toll. This isn’t to say that ambition and hard work should be discarded. They are the fuel for achieving your dreams. But it’s essential to strike a balance.

Just as you meticulously plan your financial investments, invest in your well-being. Prioritize regular exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep. Nurture your mental health by seeking out stress-relief activities, practicing mindfulness, and finding time for relaxation. Remember to maintain a robust social life that brings joy and support.

The lesson here is that while chasing success is admirable, it shouldn’t come at the expense of your health and happiness. Finding that equilibrium is the key. When you do, you’ll not only secure your financial future but also enjoy the journey without compromising your well-being. A life well-lived is one where both wealth and health thrive in harmony. So, in your pursuit of financial success, don’t forget to get your life sorted first.

-by Jayapratha Kannan.