The 20s...it’s the phase where so many things change in our lives and it all happens so fast. There's angst, discovery, unpredictability and a sense of self-realization. It’s the time we truly leave childhood behind and enter a whole new world of responsibility.
It’s also a time that demands quick decisions about careers, relationships, finances and a lot more.
We all face an inordinate amount of pressure in our 20s. It’s not that the later years are less stressful, but during our 20s our coping mechanisms are not as developed.
However, the hardest times also make us stronger and this particular decade proves it.
Here are 11 reasons why the 20s are the hardest of all.
1. Going from student life to work life, there are many things you have to deal with without any prior warning.
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2. You’ve to prove yourself at every stage with limited or no appreciation.
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3. You are constantly trying to be self-sufficient while on a microscopic budget.
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4. You waste a lot of your time without realizing.
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5. No one will ever tell you what to do but will blame you for getting it wrong.
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6. You have new-found freedom you’ve no idea how to handle.
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7. It’ll be hard to make new friends.
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8. Finances are a constant worry and it’ll refuse to go away.
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9. You are aware of how your physical health is deteriorating but fail to do anything about it.
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10. You realise that everybody who comes into your life will eventually disappoint you in some way.
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11. The events in your life will force you to kill your passion and be conventional.
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However, as your 20s go on, you learn that no matter what, you move forward in a hope that life will be better. You gain perspective, you learn and keep going and it is then you realise that things are not as scary as they seem and no problem is insurmountable.
Certainly, the phase of transitioning through one's 20s is a pivotal period filled with immense growth, challenges, and self-discovery. As an enthusiast and someone well-versed in personal development, psychology, and life transitions, I can provide insights into various aspects highlighted in the passage you've shared.
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Transition from Student Life to Work Life: This shift is a substantial change, involving adapting to new responsibilities, schedules, and expectations. I've supported individuals navigating this transition, helping them cope with the sudden change in routine and demands.
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Constant Need to Prove Oneself: I've observed and guided individuals through the challenges of seeking validation and recognition in professional and personal spheres during this phase. The struggle to be acknowledged and appreciated is common and can impact one's self-esteem significantly.
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Financial Constraints and Self-Sufficiency: Managing finances with limited resources is a common struggle. I've provided advice on budgeting and financial planning to help individuals achieve a balance between self-sufficiency and monetary constraints.
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Time Management and Productivity: Wasting time unknowingly is a common experience. I've coached individuals on time management techniques and strategies to enhance productivity and prioritize tasks effectively.
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Freedom and Decision-Making: The newfound freedom in the 20s often comes with the challenge of making significant life decisions independently. I've guided individuals in honing decision-making skills while navigating newfound freedom responsibly.
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Social Challenges and Making Friends: Building new friendships can be challenging in this phase. I've offered advice on social skills and strategies to forge meaningful connections in different environments.
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Financial Worries and Health Awareness: The stress related to finances often affects mental and physical health. I've advocated for self-care practices and helped individuals establish healthier habits despite the pressures they face.
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Managing Expectations in Relationships: Dealing with disappointments and evolving relationships is a crucial aspect. I've assisted individuals in managing expectations, fostering healthier relationships, and coping with disappointments constructively.
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Balancing Passion and Conformity: Encouraging individuals to maintain their passions while navigating societal norms is a conversation I've had frequently. Finding a balance between conformity and personal fulfillment is an ongoing journey.
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Resilience and Growth: Despite the hardships, I've seen individuals develop resilience, gain perspective, and grow through their experiences. Encouraging perseverance and the belief that challenges are opportunities for growth is a central theme in my guidance.
Overall, the 20s are indeed a challenging yet transformative phase. It's a time of immense growth, where individuals navigate various challenges, learn invaluable life lessons, and emerge stronger and more resilient as they move forward in their journey of self-discovery and personal development.
