12 Lessons I Wish I Knew in My Early 20s as a Nigerian Youth - Vivsco.com.ng

Things I Wish I Knew in My Early 20s (Nigerian Youth Edition)

The 20s are often romanticized as the time to explore, enjoy, and figure life out. But for many Nigerians, it’s also the time for hustle, confusion, heartbreak, and costly mistakes. Looking back, here are 12 real-life lessons I wish someone told me earlier lessons every young Nigerian should know.

1. Not Everyone Will Clap for You Do It Anyway

Stop waiting for validation. Most people won’t support your ideas until they succeed. Start that hustle, launch that blog, learn that skill. You don’t need a fan club to grow.

2. Your Degree is Good  But Not Enough

The job market in Nigeria is tough. Having a degree is great, but skills, creativity, and self-development are what give you an edge. Learn something useful outside your course.

3. Your Circle Can Build You or Break You

Surround yourself with people who challenge you to grow. Avoid friends that drain you, gossip all day, or pressure you to live above your means. Energy is contagious  protect yours.

4. It's Okay to Start Small

You don’t need a big business idea or ₦1 million capital. Start where you are, with what you have. Many successful Nigerians today started from their room with data and grit.

5. Love is Not a Replacement for Self-Worth

Your relationship should not complete you  it should complement your growth. Don’t lose yourself trying to prove you’re worthy of someone who can’t see your value.

6. Learn to Say “No” Without Guilt

Say no to things, people, and habits that steal your peace. You don’t owe everyone access to your time or money. Protect your boundaries early.

7. Save Money Even if It’s Small

The future feels far away until it hits you. ₦1,000 saved today is better than nothing. Build a saving habit, not just a spending one. You'll thank yourself later.

8. Your Mental Health Matters

You're not weak for feeling overwhelmed. You don’t have to “man up” or “act strong” all the time. Talk to someone. Rest when you need to. Protect your peace.

9. Be Careful Who You Trust

Not everyone smiling at you wants the best for you. Be kind, but not naive. Watch actions, not just words. Learn to keep your moves private.

10. Consistency is Greater Than Motivation

You won’t always feel like working, studying, or praying. Build routines and habits that carry you through low moments. Motivation fades, discipline lasts.

11. God is Not a Backup Plan  He’s the Foundation

Pray about everything. Trust God with your journey. Don’t just remember Him when you’re confused  walk with Him from the start. He sees what you can’t.

12. Your 20s Are Not a Race

Some friends will marry, blow, or travel before you  that’s okay. Stay focused on your own lane. Life isn’t a competition. Grow at your own pace.

🧠 Bonus Advice:

• Invest in books, podcasts, and wise mentors
• Don’t post everything online protect your privacy
• Enjoy the journey not just the destination

💬 FAQ: Nigerian Youth Life Lessons

Q1: Is it too late to change if I’ve wasted time?

Never. You can start fresh at any point. What matters is what you do next, not what you missed before.

Q2: How do I find purpose in my 20s?

Try new things. Pay attention to what excites you. Serve others. And don’t rush purpose grows as you grow.

Q3: What if I’m confused and broke?

Start from where you are. Learn something new, serve someone, pray often, and don’t give up. We’ve all been there you’ll rise too.

💡 Final Thought

Your 20s will shape your future  don’t waste them chasing hype or fearing failure. Learn, grow, fail forward, and stay grounded in who you’re becoming. Life is not about being perfect it’s about becoming purposeful.