I turned 25 three weeks ago, and was amazed by the number of people who asked me if I was going to have a quarter-life crisis.
First of all, I am glad that 25 years is only a quarter of the way through, not a third or a half.
Second of all, no I am not going to have a quarter-life crisis. I may be 25, but I don’t look back on what I have achieved so far with panic that I am falling behind my peers or haven’t ticked enough things off my list.
Thirdly, is it something you plan on doing? Surely it’s something that just happens?
I have had first-hand experience with The Crisis. Most of you reading this blog will know who I am talking about, and for those who don’t I won’t bore you with the sad story of my pathetic love life. Perhaps seeing someone else go through it helps me put things in perspective and knowing that I don’t want to end up down that road.
I can’t think of any real reason why I would suddenly have a freak out just because I have spent 25 years on this planet. In that time I feel like I have achieved plenty and am well on my way to achieve more.
If I was a bit insecure I could be worried about my single status. 25 and single?! Shock, horror! It seems like every time I log into Facebook someone else is getting engaged or posting wedding and/or baby pictures. I have been single for well over a year now, and to be honest it was one of the best and busiest years of my life to date. Why would I want to rush into anything with just anyone when I’m doing fine on my own?
If I was materialistic I would worry that I don’t own a house yet or have any assets to speak of. I have never even owned a car. I spent about half a house deposit on an overseas adventure this year, and intend on doing it again next year. At this point in time I want experiences, not property.
So for all you nearly 25-year-olds out there, don’t stress about the number. Be proud of yourself for all that you have achieved in your short life and be ready for the adventures that await.
I absolutely agree that there's no need for some semi-intentional and fully-obnoxious 'quarter-life crisis'. The first 10 years at least are a total write-off for achievements (other than pure survival), and really we're all idjits for another 10 years after that!
ReplyDeleteSo, I'd just like to think that I've done pretty well for the first 5 years of my adult life... 1st class honours degrees, moved away from home, got 'proper job', became awesome at proper job, got a decent chunk of cash put away, booked travel for next year... and met some beautiful people along the way.
Nothing to sniff at!
Girl Shapelle, and thanks for becoming my one and only follower!
ReplyDeleteVery well put, Lauren:-)
ReplyDeleteThere's always the tendency/trap for a person to follow in the footsteps of someone else or want what the other person has, simply because you feel like you're missing out on the things they have. If you do that, you're not really living YOUR life, are you? The only thing worth following is your heart and what you want to do with YOUR life.
After all, you only live life once but if you make the most out of it, once is enough.