10 Ways To Avoid A Quarter-Life Crisis

A quarter-life crisis is like a mid-life crisis, but instead of drowning in regret for the good times past you are being swallowed alive by anxieties of the future. Here are ten ways to not lose your self-concept while treading through the murky waters of your mid-twenties.

1. Do Exactly What You Want To Be Doing

It is, of course, easy to say you already are doing what you want to be doing. We can all make excuses like, “I’m fine where I’m at,” or “in fact, I’m doing better than all my peers!” But if you have even the smallest inkling of doubt on doing what you’re doing right now (when compared to the rest of your life) make that change NOW. Don’t listen to the heuristics of “but I’ve already gotten so far in this dead-end nine-to-five job!” Because it’s simple: if you don’t make that change now, it will not only be harder to change in the future but you are only postponing this first step.

2. Make A Plan

Baby steps. Outline vigorously even if you’re aware of all the possible detours and changing life circumstances that will keep you from following your plan perfectly. It is imperative to make a plan for the future and work (no matter how hard it may seem) towards it.

3. Stop Listening To Societal Expectations

Your family members, friends, and even significant others are not living your life. YOU are living your life. For example, if your goal is to own a home, educate yourself realistically on the chances, how to achieve this, and don’t be opposed to living with your parents while you save up to meet that goal.

4. Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself

Don’t forget your potential, even if it means getting back in touch with silly childhood dreams. You literally have time to make your dreams come true, and the more you worry about aging the less you can actually do something about it.

5. Be Grateful

This is an important one. Many people don’t even make it to the age you are right now. Further, be grateful for all the opportunities you have grasped and the people that have helped you get where you are today.

6. Spring Cleaning

Throw away items that you don’t want to take with you in the future. A new head-space is what you’re trying to achieve, and the easiest way to accomplish that is by remodeling the environment you spend your time in.

7. . . And The Same Goes For Relationships

End toxic friendships, relationships, and vow to yourself that you won’t repeat the same mistakes. Get rid of the people that offer nothing but negativity, unwarranted and jealous criticism, and surround yourself with people who will inspire you. This is the purge, and you don’t want to waste energy on people who bring you nothing but unhappiness.

8. Listen To Your Elders

Yeah, I’m serious. “Adults” may not have everything figured out either, but they do have experiences that you have yet to encounter. Listen to their stories instead of the “lessons” they try to teach you. Don’t feel like you’re too old now to ask for advice; the trick is to ask specific questions about their life experiences.

9. Explore New Things

This goes without saying, but if you haven’t traveled outside of your state or country, now’s the time. Explore new hobbies, learn about other cultures. A part of growing up is about realizing what you thought you wanted to do and what you actually enjoy doing.

10. Be Smart

Finally, spend whatever money you have wisely and save the rest. This means: stop buying more junk to throw away, partying excessively, or eating out each day of the week. Invest in your health and make self-education a priority. You only have one body, one mind, and you have a lot to offer the world. Make the right decisions now and you’ll be on your way to living your dreams.