*Why are your 20s so challenging?* Because the four pillars of life feel like they’re all in flux: *1. Relationships* Old-school friendships fade. New college bonds aren’t fully formed. Work friendships feel untrustworthy. Romantic relationships are confusing because we don’t yet understand ourselves. Family ties become strained because they don’t fully understand us. *2. Career* Constantly unsure of our paths. Everyone else seems to be doing better. We don’t love our jobs. We don’t get corporate politics. We’re told to “settle down” quickly. Yet we still want rapid growth. *3. Health* Irregular schedules. Poor sleep. Junk food. Peer pressure to drink or smoke, which can lead to addiction. Little exercise or proper diet. *4. Money* Just started earning. Needs outstrip desires. Desires outstrip savings. Easy credit is tempting. Friends spark FOMO. Everyone’s shouting YOLO. Here is the solace: You don’t have to “win” all four. Focus on winning one or two, at most. Make a deliberate choice. If you don’t choose, you risk hitting your 30s feeling stuck, and your 40s feeling like time slipped away—leading to a life of regret. In your 20s, conquering everything is the surest way to lose it all. Choose your battles, or your battles will choose you.