Hey, you’re doing a lot better than you think, and here’s why. 

It may feel like you’re lost in a forest of responsibilities, and every direction seems to lead to a dead-end. But let me tell you something: feeling this way is not an indicator of failure. It’s a sign that you’re growing, evolving, and learning. It’s all part of the journey. 

Well, if you are a guy, you should read 10 Pieces of Advice for Young Men in Their 20s.

“Feeling lost is part of the journey, not a sign of failure.”

So let’s dive into this together, and learn why you, young adult, are not failing.

The Struggle of Being a Young Adult

You are not alone. We’re in a phase filled with struggles, yes, but remember that every struggle is an opportunity to grow. 

Let’s talk about money. You’re just starting to make money, and suddenly you’re expected to manage it all – small things that come up, groceries, internet, and so much more.

• Work: You’ve landed your first job, or maybe you’re still searching. Either way, it’s tough. You’re learning, you’re growing, and sometimes, you’re making mistakes. And that’s okay.
• Relationships: They’re complex, aren’t they? Friends, family, and significant others – all require time and effort. But remember, you are in a relationship with yourself too.
• Health: Mental, physical, emotional. It’s a lot to juggle. But remember, it’s okay to take breaks, to breathe, to rest. You’re human, after all.

But within all these struggles, lie victories – big and small.

Paying your bills on time, getting that promotion, maintaining relationships, and taking care of your health – these are all wins. Every day you’re surviving, you’re winning. 

“The struggle you’re in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow.”

So, young person, you are not failing. You are learning, growing, evolving. Keep going. The best is yet to come.

The Myth of Having it All Together by 30

See, you’ve probably heard that by 30, you should have it all together – a high-paying job, a house, a family, the works. Let me break it to you – that’s a myth, a well-curated illusion that doesn’t reflect reality. They are ‘whining’ you.

The average student loan debt for a college graduate is $30,000.

Truth bomb: Life is not a race, and there’s no finish line that you need to cross before the big 3-0. It’s okay, breathe. You are exactly where you need to be. Instead, see life as a journey!

“Nobody has it all together, that’s like trying to eat ‘once and for all’.”

There are many stories of people who didn’t find their feet until well into their 30s, 40s or even 50s and beyond. Think of Vera Wang, who didn’t design her first dress until she was 40, or Stan Lee, who created his first hit comic, “The Fantastic Four,” just shy of his 39th birthday. 

• Samuel L. Jackson didn’t land his most famous roles until after he turned 40.
• Julia Child didn’t write her first cookbook until she was 50.
• Charles Darwin was 50 years old when his book “On the Origin of Species” came out.

So, what’s the rush? Why are we so eager to put a deadline on success? Calm down.

Our society’s obsession with youth and speed has created a toxic culture of overnight success expectations.

It’s not healthy, it’s not realistic, and it’s definitely not helping any of us feel better about ourselves. 

It’s Okay Not to Be Okay 

Life is very tough. It’s filled with challenges, responsibilities, and high expectations. But remember, you’re human. It’s okay to struggle. It’s okay to doubt. It’s okay not to be okay. 

You’re not failing. You’re surviving. And that’s something to be proud of. 

So, dear, take your time. Embrace the journey. Celebrate your small victories. Keep going, keep learning, keep growing. You’re doing just fine.

Why Making Mistakes is Part of the Growth Process

‘Hmm, Mistakes. Those pesky little blunders that make us want to curl up and hide. They’re pretty awful, aren’t they? Well, what if I told you they’re not?

Mistakes, my friend, are not your enemies. They’re actually secret teachers in disguise, believe it or not.

Imagine yourself trying to learn how to ride a bike. You fell off the first time, right? And the second. Maybe even the tenth. But you know what? You got back on. Each tumble taught you balance, perseverance, and resilience. 

Life’s like that, too. Every stumble, every misstep, they’re all part of your personal growth. They’re your very own life teachers guiding you toward a better understanding of yourself and the world. 

“The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing.” – Henry Ford

Now, what’s the point of this bike-riding example, you ask? Simple. It’s to show you that making mistakes is not just normal, but essential to your growth. So, when life throws you off balance, dust off, get back up, and keep riding on toward your dreams. 

Remember, it’s not about the destination, but the journey. Each mistake just means you’re one step closer to becoming the best version of yourself. So, go ahead and embrace the bumpy ride. 

Keep learning. Keep growing. Keep going.

Why You Should Build Connections

Imagine life as a big, intricate dress, and you’re one small thread in the grand design. Without the other threads, your existence would be a lonely, uninspiring straight line. Making connections is like weaving yourself into that big dress, adding depth, color, and meaning to your life. 

Building connections isn’t just about shaking hands at a networking event or adding another friend on social media. No, it’s much more profound. It’s about weaving your heartstrings with those around you, intertwining your stories, dreams, and hopes with theirs. 

“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

Building connections means seeking out meaningful relationships that enrich your life, provide support when you’re down, and celebrate with you when you’re up. It’s about finding your tribe – your people, the ones who just ‘get’ you. 

• Connection fosters empathy: When we connect with others, we develop a deeper understanding of their experiences, thoughts, and feelings. This understanding nurtures empathy, making us kinder, gentler beings.
• Connection promotes growth: Each person we connect with teaches us something new, pushing us to grow, evolve, and become better versions of ourselves.
• Connection brings joy: There’s a unique joy in shared experiences and memories, a joy that solo pursuits can never match.

So, young adult, if you’re feeling like you’re failing because you’re struggling to make connections, remember this – connection isn’t a destination, it’s a journey. It’s an ongoing process of reaching out, opening up, and letting others in. So, don’t stop trying. You’re not failing; you’re just finding your way in this vast, beautiful dress of life.

Finding Inspiration Outside of Social Media

Hey, here’s a radical thought: what if your biggest source of inspiration isn’t within the 5-inch rectangle of your smartphone screen? What if that Instagram influencer’s ‘perfect life’ is as filtered as their photos? It might just be time to look elsewhere. 

Life, my dear young adult, is so much richer outside of social media. 

Now, don’t get me wrong. The digital world can be a great place to find some inspiration. But, it’s also littered with unrealistic expectations and perfectly curated lives that might make you feel like you’re not quite measuring up. 

“Comparison is the thief of joy.” – Theodore Roosevelt

How about we break away from those tiny screens and start finding inspiration in the real world? 

The Great Outdoors 

Glance up from your phone and take a look around. Nature is brimming with beauty and tranquility – mountains, beaches, forests, sunsets. They’re all out there waiting for you to explore and find inspiration in their vastness and diversity. 

Books 

Drown yourself in a sea of words – the experiences and thoughts of others can be an incredibly inspiring source. Read about the triumphs, struggles, and journeys of people who have walked this earth before you. Their wisdom can guide your path. 

People and Relationships 

Engage with the people around you. Your family, friends, and even strangers can open your eyes to perspectives you’ve never considered. Shared stories and experiences can spark new ideas and inspire you in ways you never imagined. 

Remember, dear young adult, you’re not failing. Life is just tough sometimes. Keep going. Embrace your journey, and find your inspiration outside the edges of your screen.

The Power of Positive Thinking in Tough Times

Hey there, young adult! Let’s chat about something important – the power of positive thinking, even when life feels like it’s pulling a fast one on you. It’s not a magic spell, but it sure does work like one. 

Feeling like life is a constant uphill battle? It’s okay, we all do sometimes. That’s the beauty of being human. 

Life will throw curveballs your way, but the trick is to catch them with a smile. Easier said than done, right? But let me assure you, it’s not impossible. 

Remember, “The mind is everything. What you think, you become” – Buddha

Let’s break down how positive thinking can be your secret weapon in tough times. 

1. Fosters Resilience 

Resilience isn’t about avoiding life’s hardships, but about bouncing back from them. Positive thinking can help you develop this bounce-back mentality. You’re not failing, you’re simply learning to dance in the rain! 

2. Enhances Problem-Solving Skills 

When you approach problems with a positive mindset, you’re more likely to find creative solutions. Think of challenges as puzzles waiting to be solved, not as roadblocks. And hey, puzzles can be fun! 

3. Boosts Self-Confidence 

Positive thinking can help you believe in yourself and your abilities. So next time you’re feeling low, remind yourself of your past victories. You’re far stronger than you think. 

4. Promotes Health and Longevity 

Believe it or not, your thoughts can impact your physical health too. Research suggests that optimistic people tend to live healthier and longer lives. So, positive thinking is not just good for your mind, but your body too. 

Life is tough for everyone, but remember you’re tougher. So, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep marching forward. You’re not, failing you’re just getting started!

The Value of Taking Breaks and Self-Care

Pause. Breathe. Pour yourself a cup of tea. Yes, you heard right. The world isn’t going to spin off its axis if you take a moment for yourself. 

Self-care isn’t self-indulgence, it’s self-preservation. In this fast-paced world, where our worth is often measured by our productivity, it’s easy to forget that you’re not a machine. But guess what? You’re not! 

Your mind and body need rest. You’re not failing because you’re tired or stressed. You’re human, and that’s completely okay! 

“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” – Audre Lorde

Learning to recognize when you need to step back and recharge is a skill that will serve you well in the long run. You are doing yourself a disservice by pushing past your limits. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. 

• Unplug from social media. The constant influx of information can be overwhelming.
• Exercise regularly. It helps to relieve stress and improve mental health.
• Eat a healthy diet. What you feed your body affects your mood and energy levels.
• Get enough sleep. Your body needs time to repair and recharge.
• Take time to do things you enjoy. Life isn’t all about work and responsibilities.

Balance is key. Yes, responsibilities exist, but they don’t have to consume you. You have every right to take time for yourself. You’re not failing. You’re learning, growing, and becoming. And that, dear reader, is success.