8 Ways To Survive A Quarter-Life Crisis
By Jill Berger
For the last 4 years I defined myself by where I went to school, what I majored in, and what organizations I was a part of. For the first time I entered the real world and without all these things, I truly had no idea who I was. What was life?
In interviews I got the questions like, “So what do you do for fun?” And honestly I had no idea what to say. I don’t know.. go to dress up parties? Drink on patios with my friends? But for real… no one has time for hobbies in college. At least I didn’t.
For the first time, life isn’t about cramming for tests on the weekdays and going out on the weekends. Don’t get me wrong — I like to have fun, but the word “weekend” has an entirely new meaning now.
Quarter-life crisis is a completely normal and expected stage of life for anyone going through a transition. Some people are embarrassed by the fact they have no idea what they’re doing, but it’s so reassuring to know that everyone feels this at some point.
Everyone goes through life stages at different times so it’s important not compare yourself with anyone else or where you think you should be in life. The most important thing is staying true to yourself.
1. Discover your hobbies.
What is your passion? What would you do if you had an afternoon all to yourself? Some people have natural hobbies like playing sports or instruments, but for those of us who aren’t naturally gifted, now is the time to find and discover your unexpected passions.
2. Don’t be entitled.
Success doesn’t happen overnight. You have to prove yourself in the work force and that takes time. I completely accept my responsibilities of picking up lunches for the office and taking out the mail. It can be frustrating starting from the bottom, but remember freshman year? It’s the same thing.
3. Work out.
Try kickboxing. Try Yoga. Try spin class. But start making it a lifestyle, not a chore.
4. Eat healthy.
What you put in is what you get out!
5. Have a daily routine.
There is actually a science of happiness — and having a routine that is consistent will increase your happiness throughout the day.
6. Wake up at the same time every morning.
I’m horrible at this one, but try not to hit the snooze button and discover your morning routine.
7. Discover yourself.
Spend quality time with yourself and learn that being alone is actually liberating.
8. Make a bucket list.
Have FUN! Try new things and new experiences. I am a firm believer in bucket lists for season changes, city changes, and of course a lifelong bucket list. Try crossing something off your list every month.
I can honestly tell you my stress and anxiety was through the roof when I made my first big decision to accept my first job and move to a new city. I’m still trying to figure out the person I’m meant to be, and that’s the beauty of being in your twenties. I am not saying I know the answers to life or that I have everything together. Because it’s a challenge every day and I am continuing to learn something new about myself every day. But life is beautiful and each stage of life is a journey on its own. Embrace your twenties and become the person you are meant to be.