The Perspective of a Girl in her Twenties

By Davidia Sydney

In the office kitchen, amidst the clinking of coffee mugs and the hum of the microwave, a conversation unfolded between a coworker in her early thirties and me about the complexities of life. It’s a scene that probably plays out in many workplaces —a moment of pause before the daily workload begins, where personal reflections intertwine with professional routines.

As we stood there, stirring our morning coffee, my coworker and I dived into a topic that seems to weigh heavy on many of our minds: the balancing act between living in the moment and preparing for the future. We shared how overwhelming it can feel to navigate young adulthood—juggling careers, finances, and the relentless pursuit of our dreams.

“You know,” my coworker remarked, “we’re constantly told to plan for retirement, save up for a house, invest in our careers… but sometimes it feels like we’re rushing through life without really living it.” I nodded in agreement. “Exactly. It’s like we’re racing against time, trying to check off all these milestones.”

Our conversation caught the attention of two older colleagues who had just entered the kitchen. They exchanged amused glances, clearly taken aback by our candid discussion. With a chuckle, one of them remarked, “You two are so young! What do you have to worry about?”

Being twenty-four-years old, it’s a question I’ve heard before from older family members, one that often comes from a place of well-meaning disbelief. And while I understand where they’re coming from, there’s a lot more beneath the surface of our seemingly carefree lives.

To our older coworkers, family members, and anyone who might think young people have it easy, let me offer a glimpse into our world. While we may not have the same responsibilities as you, such as mortgages, children, or decades of work experience, that doesn’t mean our lives are free of worries.

We live in a time of unprecedented change and uncertainty. The job market is volatile, and the pressure to succeed can feel suffocating at times. We’re navigating a time where societal expectations and personal goals collide while trying to create a path that aligns with our values and ambitions.

Additionally, the concept of time feels different to us. While it may seem like we have years ahead of us, the reality is that time flies. We’re constantly reminded to plan for retirement from the moment we start our first job, yet simultaneously encouraged to seize the day. All of which are supposed to be done on our limited salaries. It’s a delicate balance.

So, when we talk about feeling overwhelmed or stressed, it’s not a dismissal of our privilege, invalidating our stressors, or a plea for sympathy. It’s an acknowledgment of the complexities of modern life and a reminder that despite our youth, we carry expectations and aspirations that shape our daily decisions.

In conclusion, we urge everyone older than us, to please understand that while our worries may differ from yours, they are just as real. We value your guidance and wisdom as we navigate this journey of adulthood