Entering my 30s was tough. I was broke, just out of a long-term relationship, and felt directionless with a crappy job. I didn’t like myself much either. If there was an award for feeling like a loser, I would’ve been a top contender. I was always a high achiever in school and university, and people had high expectations for me. But hitting 30, I felt embarrassingly behind. The window for a good life seemed to be closing fast. Maybe you can relate.
Challenging the ‘Made It by 30’ Narrative
Everywhere I looked, especially in the last decade, there’s this narrative: if you haven’t made it by your 30s (some say even by 19!), you’re a failure. But as I approach my 40s, I reflect on the past decade and realize how much I’ve learned. If you’re feeling down, thinking you’ve accomplished nothing, this video aims to inspire action and offer comfort. It’s never too late.
Finding Comfort in Uncertainty
No one has it all figured out. We’re all navigating life’s uncertainties. Feeling lost is natural—perhaps because we lack direction, clarity about our current state, or a clear path forward. But this doesn’t mean we’re doomed; it’s an opportunity for growth.
Rejecting Fixed Life Timelines
Life isn’t a checklist: school, university, career, family, house, happily ever after. It rarely follows that script. Embrace the fact that everyone’s journey is unique, with different timelines and paths. There’s no rush to have everything figured out by a certain age.
Every Day is Day One: Embracing Rebirth
Jeff Bezos’ philosophy resonates: “Every day is day one.” It’s about constant reinvention. I’ve reinvented myself several times. Even entering my 30s without a solid career, I pursued further studies alongside a full-time job. Starting from scratch was daunting, but believing every day is a fresh start kept me going. Four years later, I caught up and surpassed peers in responsibilities and salary.
Embracing Change at Any Age
Change is always possible. Don’t be bound by yesterday’s decisions. Life’s not a straight line; unexpected events can derail anyone, even those seemingly “having it all.” Set realistic expectations—embarrassment or sadness about not having it all figured out often stems from unrealistic societal pressures.
The Power of Self-Awareness
Knowing oneself is key. It’s easy to get lost in societal expectations without truly understanding our desires. Self-awareness takes time—journaling, seeking feedback, and introspection. It’s crucial for navigating life authentically.
Taking Action: Experimenting and Learning
Experimentation is key to growth. If a job doesn’t fulfill you, explore side hustles. Learn from each experience—what you enjoy, what you don’t. Action, even small steps, leads to discovery and growth.
Conclusion: Embrace Curiosity and Experimentation
Stay curious. started with curiosity and experimentation. I’ve learned that staying open to new ideas and experiences is vital. Every day is an opportunity to reinvent, experiment, and learn.
Sure, here are some strategies, tips, and methods to overcome the challenges of being in your 30s:
1，Set Clear Goals and Plans:
- Define both long-term and short-term goals to give yourself a clear direction for the future.
- Break down your goals into actionable steps and create detailed plans to achieve them.
2，Skill Enhancement and Learning:
- Assess your current skills and knowledge in your career field to identify areas that may need improvement or updating.
- Consider taking additional courses, workshops, or certifications to enhance your skills and stay competitive.
- Explore new fields or industries that align better with your interests and passions, and be open to learning new skills that are relevant to those areas.
3，Networking and Building Relationships:
- Networking is crucial at any stage of your career. Connect with professionals in your industry or field of interest through networking events, LinkedIn, or industry-specific groups.
- Build genuine relationships with mentors, peers, and industry leaders who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for growth.
4，Financial Planning and Budgeting:
- Take control of your finances by creating a budget and sticking to it. This will help you manage your expenses and save for future goals.
- Consider consulting with a financial advisor to help you plan for long-term financial stability, especially if you’re considering major life changes like starting a business or changing careers.
5，Self-Reflection and Personal Development:
- Take time to reflect on your values, strengths, weaknesses, and interests. This self-awareness will help you make informed decisions about your career and life.
- Invest in personal development activities such as reading, attending workshops, or practicing mindfulness to enhance your overall well-being and resilience.
6，Embrace Change and Take Action:
- Understand that life is dynamic, and change is inevitable. Embrace opportunities for growth and be willing to adapt to new challenges.
- Take decisive action towards your goals and aspirations. Even small steps taken consistently can lead to significant progress over time.
7，Seek Support and Stay Positive:
- Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, or mentors who encourage and motivate you during challenging times.
- Maintain a positive mindset and believe in your ability to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
Remember, everyone’s journey is unique, and progress may not always be linear. Celebrate your achievements along the way and stay committed to continuous improvement and growth.