The word “later” is the first step towards losing the opportunities in your life.
The biggest mistake young people make is putting everything off until “later”:
— “I'll manage even if I start after 30”
— “Once my job is stable, I'll deal with everything”
— “I have no time now, I'll study later”
But life moves fast! Let's look at a few science-based, life-tested rules for starting now:
“Youth is a resource that cannot be recovered.” A real-life example: at 20, Alisher used to say “I'll have time for everything”; by 30 he was saying “I have time, but no opportunity or strength left.” A scientific fact: a young body adapts quickly until the age of 25, and a young brain picks up new skills five times faster — after that, metabolism slows down and injuries take longer to heal. Recommendation: take up useful learning, sport, travel and new skills — start all of it, in moderation, now!
“Free time is the mind's guide.” A real-life example: as a student, Zuhra used to spend most of her free time on things that did her no good, and later found herself feeling “I've lost interest in my studies and my work.” A scientific fact: according to a Stanford University study, one hour of “free” time (a hobby) every day raises creativity by 40%. Recommendation: set aside one hour a day just for yourself — useful pursuits such as reading, sport or a walk strengthen and enrich your thinking, imagination and willpower.
“Health is the most valuable, and free, gift you have been given.” A real-life example: at 25, Jasur used to say “I'm young, I won't get sick” and paid no attention to his diet; by 30 he was living with chronic gastritis. A scientific fact: overeating, fast food and fizzy drinks consumed in excess in youth can lead to heart, stomach and kidney problems by the age of 40. Recommendation:
— eat fruit and vegetables every day (a scientific recommendation!);
— have a full medical check-up once a year.
A reminder: let us all value our youth before old age comes, our health before illness comes, and our free time now before we become too busy with ourselves. No one is spared these three processes!
Sardor Otayorov, psychologist at Mirzo Ulugbek Samarkand State Technical University.
