Let’s talk about something that’s been on my mind lately: bad days. Yep, those frustrating, challenging, and downright tough days that make us want to crawl back into bed and hit the reset button. I’ve been thinking a lot about how these bad days are actually essential, especially as we navigate our 20s. It’s like we need them to truly appreciate the good ones. Hear me out.

In our 20s, life is this crazy mix of highs and lows. We’re figuring out our careers, relationships, and, well, ourselves. There are days when everything feels like it’s falling apart, and then there are days when everything just clicks. It’s easy to love the good days, but it’s the bad ones that teach us the most about ourselves and life.

Think about the last time you had a really amazing day. Maybe you got a promotion, aced an exam, or spent an incredible day with friends. Now, think about the days leading up to that. Chances are, there were some tough moments. Maybe you were stressed, anxious, or even doubting yourself. But those bad days made the good day that much sweeter, right?

It’s like this: without rain, we wouldn’t appreciate the sunshine. Bad days are our emotional rainstorms. They wash away our complacency, push us out of our comfort zones, and make us stronger. They force us to confront our weaknesses and fears, and in doing so, we grow. And when the sun finally comes out, we bask in it, appreciating its warmth and light more than ever.

Navigating life in your 20s can feel like riding a rollercoaster with no map. There are twists and turns we didn’t expect, and sometimes we just have to hang on tight and scream through the ride. But those moments of fear and uncertainty? They’re part of the journey. They remind us that we’re alive, learning, and evolving.

So, when you’re having one of those bad days, try to remember it’s just part of the process. It’s okay to feel down and frustrated. Let yourself feel those emotions, but don’t get stuck there. Use those bad days as a reminder that better ones are on the horizon. Each struggle is a stepping stone to something greater.

And when the good days come—and they will come—relish them. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small. Recognize how far you’ve come and give yourself credit for enduring the tough times. These moments of joy and success are your reward for persevering through the storms.

Life in your 20s is all about balance. It’s about finding gratitude in the highs and the lows, learning from the tough times, and celebrating the good ones. So next time you’re in the middle of a bad day, take a deep breath and remind yourself: this too shall pass, and when it does, you’ll appreciate the good days even more.

Here’s to embracing the journey, rain or shine.

With love,

Dominika Banas