Your 20s are a time of growth, exploration, and building the foundation for your future. While making mistakes is part of the journey, some career missteps can set you back more than others. Learning to avoid them early can save you time, money, and stress, and help you grow faster in the right direction.

Here are key career mistakes to avoid in your 20s:

1. CHASING MONEY OVER MEANING

It’s tempting to take the highest-paying job offer, but if the role drains your energy or clashes with your values, you’ll burn out quickly. Instead, focus on building skills, gaining experience, and finding purpose, even if the pay is modest at first.

2. NOT ASKING QUESTIONS OR SEEKING MENTORSHIP

Assuming you have to figure everything out alone can slow your growth. Ask questions, seek feedback, and find mentors. People love to share knowledge and their guidance can open doors and help you avoid avoidable mistakes.

3. STAYING TOO LONG IN A JOB YOU’VE OUTGROWN

Loyalty is great, but don’t stay in a job just because it feels comfortable. If you’re no longer learning, challenged, or growing, it’s time to move on. Your 20s are for exploration not settling too soon.

4. IGNORING PERSONAL BRANDING

Your online presence matters. Update your LinkedIn, build a clean CV, and be intentional with social media. How you present yourself publicly can affect job opportunities, collaborations, and networking.

5. NOT INVESTING IN NEW SKILLS

Industries change fast. Don’t rely only on your school degree keep learning through short courses, certifications, or practical experience. Lifelong learners adapt better and climb faster.

6. FEAR OF TAKING RISKS

Your 20s are the best time to explore, take career risks, start a project, switch fields, or travel for work. Waiting for the “perfect time” might mean missing valuable growth moments.

7. COMPARING YOURSELF CONSTANTLY

Everyone moves at their own pace. Some land dream jobs at 23, others figure things out at 29. Focus on your lane. Learn, grow, and measure success by progress not pressure.

8. BURNING BRIDGES

Whether you’re quitting a job or handling conflict, always leave with grace and professionalism. You never know when you’ll cross paths again or need a reference.

9. AVOIDING FEEDBACKS

Criticism can sting, but it’s also how you grow. Don’t take it personally take it constructively. Feedback is fuel for professional improvement.

10. NOT TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEALTH

Work hard, yes. But don’t sacrifice your mental and physical health. Burnout isn’t a badge of honor. Build habits that allow you to sustain your success long-term.

Your 20s are not about having everything figured out, they’re about laying a strong, flexible foundation. Avoiding these mistakes won’t make your career perfect, but it will make it purposeful, steady, and fulfilling.

It’s okay to stumble. Just learn, adjust, and keep moving forward.

By: Adenola Eniola.