As you enter your 20s, you’ll realise that you need to start taking some responsibility.

Suddenly you’re out on your own in the big scary world, trying to navigate the years that follow school and university. We’ve compiled a list of handy habits that you should form while you’re young to help you later on in life.

#1 Wear Sunscreen

2 in 3 Aussies will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. That’s a pretty scary fact.

The best way to prevent this is to slip, slop, slap. Add a layer of sunscreen into your daily routine, and remember to re-apply.

#2 Learn How To Budget

Saving money is hard. But if you can get the hang of budgeting and reaching financial goals in your 20s, you’ve got a bit of a head start.

Download an app, or read a book on money tips and tricks, and make the most of your hard-earned dollar.

#3 Exercise

They say the hardest thing about working out is starting. Your 20s are your perfect time to figure out what works well for you, and get in routine while your body is fresh and less prone to injury.

#4 Eating Well 

Nutrition is important, and the sooner you can realise this the better. Establishing good food habits in your 20s will help you throughout your life. You’ll be super thankful that you got a headstart now.

#5 Learn To Say No

It’s so easy to be a ‘yes man’, but it’s so draining. Take a stand and only take on jobs that you can. Say no to that third unpaid job from your boss, say no to a night out when all you need is sleep and say no when you’re being taken for granted.

#6 Take Time For Yourself

Technology has meant we are connected to everyone around us 24/7. But sometimes all you need is some time alone to be yourself.

Get into the habit of setting aside a block of time every day to do something YOU enjoy. Read a book, watch a favourite TV show or meditate, and reconnect with the most important person in your life.

#7 Look After Your Teeth

You only get one set of teeth in your life, so take care of them! Make sure you get into a good oral hygiene routine, which means brushing twice a day, flossing and heading for a check-up at the dentist every six months.

#8 Establish A Skincare Routine 

Every magazine and health/fitness blog includes a skin care routine to suit your age, but it’s rare there is one for your 20s.

This doesn’t mean you can’t get started, and have a running start against ageing. A basic cleanser, moisturiser and serum would be a good place to start.

#9 Take Notice Of The News 

It’s important to understand what’s going on in the world around you. Taking some notice of the news will help put things into perspective, as well as keep your mind active and able to engage in political conversation.

#10 Organisation

Harnessing the skill of time management is so important. Juggling work, a social life, a partner and anything else that might be thrown in the mix (hello dedicated Netflix binge sessions) is almost impossible.

Learning how to effectively plan your time will reduce so much stress, and your 20s are the perfect time to figure out your priorities and how it all works together.