Let’s Talk About ‘The Quarter Life Crisis’ 20-Something-Year-Olds Are Going Through

Everybody is talking about The Great Resignation: young and old, people are quitting their jobs in pursuit of more fulfilling endeavors. Money seemingly is losing popularity to happiness, purpose and wellbeing — as if these were not supposed to be the end game anyway for whatever we decide to pursue in this life.

However, what I’d like to address is something that triggers the young ones to quit, even in a volatile economy. Let’s talk about The Quarter Life Crisis.

When I was 24, I started having small instances where I paused mid-task and wondered “What am I doing with my life?”. Initially, I’d shake it off — I’m young and optimistic! We don’t have time for an existential crisis! However, time would then pass by and suddenly, these instances turned into persistent thoughts, which eventually led to full-blown daily dread and doom.

“Is this what I want to do for the rest of my life?”

“But if not this… then what?”

“I should be grateful I have a job… but why am I so unhappy?”

On one side, you feel the responsibility to continue your job because, well, somebody needs to pay the bills. You may have also set financial milestones for yourself, and you can’t reach them if you’re looking out the window wondering about life now, can you? On the other hand, you know deep in your heart that this is not the path you’d like to go down in the long-run.

Hence, if you are currently in the thick of a Quarter Life Crisis and vigorously nodding your head to every paragraph you have read above, the following tips are for you.

1. Do not, I repeat, do not quit that job just yet.

Unless you are privileged with a strong financial background, I do not suggest quitting your job on a whim’s notice. At least, not without a backup plan. I understand how enticing it might feel to send in that resignation email (or resignation letter for our traditional career friends out there… I’m looking at you, lawyers) and walk out of the office with “I Want To Break Free” by Queen playing in the background. However, let’s be real: many of us still need a stable stream of income every month to get by.

Hence, what you can do instead is start browsing for new opportunities that are more aligned with your values. Participate in job-seeking events and polish your CV and interview skills. Remember: quitting your current situation is only Step 1 and won’t fill the hole in your heart. What you will do after quitting, is the real challenge.

2. Self-reflection is the way to go

During a Quarter Life Crisis, it is important that you practice self-reflection. Some of you might feel that you want to avoid this because it means you need to be vulnerable with yourself, your hopes, your dreams and your feelings… and you don’t have time for that, right?

Well, let me tell you, if you don’t do it, you’re only cheating yourself of a better future.

Self-reflection is important as it helps to create a roadmap for your life. What makes you happy? What do you enjoy doing? What are your priorities in this life? Sit and allow yourself to be vulnerable and honest, and map it all out — future you will be super thankful for this.

3. Go forth and start exploring!

Once you’ve undergone that phase of self-discovery, it is time to go out into the world and explore opportunities that resonate with you. You don’t have to have all the answers to start exploring, and neither is there ever going to be a perfect time to start. As long as you know what areas make you feel fulfilled and driven to do well, then take that first step as soon as you can.

Maybe you’re coming from a heavily-regulated industry, feeling stuck behind a desk with limited social interactions but you know that you love working with people and being more on the ground. Consider volunteering your time for community initiatives, or try applying for jobs that are more people-driven such as the Learning & Development or People & Culture teams.

Maybe you feel stuck at your 9 to 5 job, and you’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset and business idea that you wish to pursue full-time. Try speaking to mentors in this area — those that have transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. Ask them how was it like, how can you do it too, and where should you begin.

Once you explore, inspiration will come left, right and center. It is up to you on how you want to utilize this inspiration on taking the next step in your career.

Navigating a Quarter Life Crisis is easier said than done. My points above do not cover the anxiety, guilt and empty feeling that comes along with it. Not to mention the nay-sayers that say “You have it good! Don’t waste your time”. Many of us also would need a longer time to finally make the first step to explore, as we have obligations to our family and ourselves — and this is totally okay too.

I guess my main point is that, if you do feel like you’d like to pursue something different and closer to your heart’s desire, then give yourself a chance and hear yourself out. And when you believe the time has come to take that leap of faith, I wish you all the bravery and happiness on your new adventure.

Sincerely,

A Quarter Life Crisis Graduate (Click for a surprise…)