Things Holding You Back from Personal Growth in Your 20s (Don’t Let This Happen to You!)

Your 20s are full of change—figuring out who you are, what you want, and how to navigate life’s ups and downs. But certain habits and mindsets can hold you back from growing into the person you’re meant to be. Let’s talk about what might be keeping you stuck—and how to break free.

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1. Fear of Making the Wrong Decision

Why It Holds You Back:

Ever feel paralyzed by the pressure to make the “right” choices? Career, relationships, where to live—it can all feel so final. But most decisions in your 20s aren’t permanent. Growth happens when you take action, make mistakes, and learn.

What to Do Instead:

    •    Remind yourself that no decision is forever. You can pivot.

    •    Ask: What’s the next best step? Instead of thinking 10 years ahead, focus on the immediate future.

    •    Give yourself a time limit for making decisions to avoid overthinking.

2. Comparing Yourself to Others

Why It Holds You Back:

It’s easy to scroll through social media and feel like you’re behind. Someone’s getting engaged, landing their dream job, or traveling the world—meanwhile, you’re just trying to figure out dinner. But comparison only steals your joy and confidence.

What to Do Instead:

    •    Unfollow accounts that make you feel “less than.”

    •    Journal about your own progress in the last year to see how far you’ve come.

    •    Remind yourself: Everyone’s timeline is different. Success isn’t a race.

3. Letting Self-Doubt Control You

Why It Holds You Back:

That little voice in your head telling you you’re not smart enough, talented enough, or capable enough? It’s lying. Self-doubt keeps you playing small and avoiding risks that could lead to growth.

What to Do Instead:

    •    Keep a list of past accomplishments—read it when you’re feeling insecure.

    •    Challenge negative thoughts by asking, What evidence do I have that I’ll fail?

    •    Take action anyway. Confidence comes from doing, not waiting until you feel ready.

4. Avoiding Discomfort

Why It Holds You Back:

Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone. It happens when you do things that scare you—having tough conversations, setting boundaries, trying new things, failing and getting back up.

What to Do Instead:

    •    Start small. Do one thing outside your comfort zone each week.

    •    When faced with discomfort, ask: Is this helping me grow? If yes, lean into it.

    •    Reframe fear as excitement—your brain processes them similarly!

5. Not Prioritizing Your Mental Health

Why It Holds You Back:

Your 20s can bring a lot of stress—work pressure, financial worries, relationships, figuring out your identity. If you ignore your mental health, you’ll struggle to grow in other areas too.

What to Do Instead:

    •    Set boundaries—say no when you need to.

    •    Find what helps you feel grounded (therapy, journaling, movement, mindfulness).

    •    Ask for help. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

6. Holding Onto Relationships That No Longer Serve You

Why It Holds You Back:

Not every friendship or relationship is meant to last forever. If someone drains your energy, makes you doubt yourself, or doesn’t support your growth, it might be time to re-evaluate.

What to Do Instead:

    •    Check in with yourself: Do I feel valued in this relationship?

    •    Set boundaries—distance yourself from toxic dynamics.

    •    Focus on surrounding yourself with people who inspire and uplift you.

7. Overthinking Instead of Taking Action

Why It Holds You Back:

Overanalyzing every possible outcome won’t lead to clarity—it’ll just keep you stuck. The best way to figure out what works for you is through action.

What to Do Instead:

    •    Use the 5-Second Rule: Count down from 5 and then take action.

    •    Break big decisions into smaller, actionable steps.

    •    Remind yourself: Progress matters more than perfection.

Final Thoughts

Your 20s are about learning, evolving, and becoming the person you’re meant to be. Growth isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. Pay attention to the things holding you back—and choose to move forward anyway.

What’s one mindset shift that has helped you grow? Drop a comment and share your thoughts!