These days, my feeds are full of “ten things I wish I knew when I was [insert age here]” videos. While they’re often a great source of advice, the way that they’re framed never quite sits right with me. Whenever I watch one that’s referencing an age younger than me or close to mine, I start comparing — did I know those things at 22? Should I have all of this figured out by the time I’m 25? If I don’t practice all of these tips by the time I reach that age, am I behind?

Am I putting too much stock in strangers’ words on the internet? Probably. But in a world where online experts are everywhere, does this type of content make me anxious? Yes.

So instead of starting down Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve Lane, I’ve started making lists of things that I’m glad I know now. Here are a few from this week:

1. You have time 
2. Perfectionism doesn’t have to rule you — attention to detail can fuel you 
3. You have the potential to make an impact in every room you walk into 
4. Volunteer yourself for the things you’re interested in, when you can 
5. The best connections you’ll make are the ones that feel natural 
6. Everyone you meet is literally also just a person, no matter their job title 
7. Reframing comparison as inspiration can change a lot
8. Learning is a constant of life: after graduation, you’re just making your own syllabus 
9. A good color-coded, organized list will save you five (or more) headaches 
10. No one has all the answers — there’ll be ten more things I’ll be glad I know tomorrow