There comes a time in every young collegiette’s life where she will experience the infamous and inevitable Quarter-Life Crisis. This phase can begin with a simple “What are you doing after graduation?” from a family member or friend, and can escalate to nights of sitting on the couch with a tub of Ben & Jerry’s, watching movies that bring back the days of cassette players, ring pops, and the Backstreet Boys.
Yes, Ladies, we’ve all been there, or will be hitting this point soon. The stress of registering for tests like the GRE, MCAT, and LSAT, maintaining a good GPA, and finding an internship that will most likely make or break your future career can build up and be a lot to handle. The thought of transitioning from living in a small town with your best friends to putting your big-girl pants on and moving into the real world is often a scary thought. But rather than letting these stressful thoughts weigh you down, here are some things to keep in mind to help lift your spirits.
First and foremost, HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOR.
This realization came to me as I found myself one morning pouring my freshly brewed coffee into a cereal bowl rather than a coffee mug. I was late for class and had stayed up the night before finishing a paper. But rather than get mad, I couldn’t help but laugh at my mix up. Think of the time you were freaking out about applying for college. Doesn’t it all seem silly now? No matter how difficult studying for the GRE gets, or how many jobs you apply to before you get one, try to keep a smile on your face. And when you goof up, just take a second to laugh about it before freaking out about how you’re going to fix it.
Secondly, REMEMBER THAT ALL GOOD THINGS TAKE TIME.
As annoying as it is, waiting is a big part of the Quarter-Life Crisis. Waiting two weeks to hear from a job, or taking the time to perfect and learn a skill or program can be irritating. I often find myself looking at my older friends’ lives and thinking to myself, I’m just sitting here on the couch watching the third season of Scrubs while this chick is teaching English in Guatemala. I’m obviously a failure. DON’T BUY INTO THIS. Just keep persevering and working hard toward your goal, and it’ll work out!
And lastly, DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS.
Teddy Roosevelt said “Comparison is the thief of joy”. Spending hours in front of the computer screen comparing your looks, career, life goals, and life with your “friends” on social media will get you nowhere. Instead, go outside, appreciate the people physically around you, try something new, and nourish your passions and dreams. Embrace everything about you that makes you different from everyone else.
It might happen to everyone, the occasional mental breakdown and doubting yourself. But it’s up to you whether to let it get the best of you, or let it get behind you.