Image by Eduin Escobar from Pixabay: Edited in Canva
I often check out self-improvement groups on Reddit to see what folks are talking about. It helps me understand the kinds of issues people are dealing with. Unfortunately, I come across many young individuals who feel like they're running out of time. They're just a year or two past 25 and are grappling with the sense that they're no longer considered young. This phenomenon has a historical precedent. While the media often highlights 40 as the age for a "mid-life crisis," 27 is another crucial point. The "27 Club" refers to a list of entertainers who passed away at that age. It's worth noting that their deaths were more related to their high-risk lifestyles, not the topic we're discussing here. However, the mental and emotional weight that comes with being 27 might be overwhelming for young people dealing with depression or addiction.
When you hit 27 there's this invisible rule that says you should have your shit together. Society's whispering in your ear that you ought to have at least a bachelor's degree and be killing it in your dream job by now. And let's not forget the cherry on top – the judgment. Parents, friends, associates – everyone's got their measuring tape out, comparing you to society's expectations, and it's not always the most fun experience.
The point is that success doesn't have an age limit or have to look a certain way. It's never too late to set new goals. But if you feel like you're out of time it's critical to get to the heart of the feeling.
Shift your mindset:
To overcome the feeling of being too old, it's vital to shift your mindset. Instead of dwelling on lost time, focus on the wealth of experiences, lessons, and skills you've gained thus far. Your past doesn't dictate your future; rather, it serves as a foundation for growth. Take pride in your journey and recognize that every setback and triumph has shaped the person you are today.
Build a healthy relationship with time:
Ever thought about your relationship with time? Most people haven't, but whether we realize it or not, we all have one. This relationship with time sets the stage for how we connect with everything else—money, friends, family, ourselves, and life in general.
Think of an hourglass with sand slowly trickling down. The sand at the top represents the time you still have—a window to build wealth, forge relationships, start a family, and become the person you envision. The sand at the bottom? Well, that's the time that's already slipped away.
Sure, we can't flip the hourglass and hit reset, and that might make time feel linear. According to our typical physics understanding, the time that's gone is gone for good. However, we can change the way we view our past. By shifting our perspective, we can actually alter our present. It's like turning your past experiences into gold.
Mine your past for jewels:
For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. - Proverbs 8:11
I bet you've heard of King Solomon. The Hebrew Bible depicts King Solomon as one of the wealthiest kings in history. However, he was equally known for his wisdom, and despite his massive wealth, he considered it to be more precious than jewels.
Wisdom is a hot commodity nowadays, and everyone wants it. Go on any social media platform and you will see just as many people giving advice as there are asking for it. However, the best source of wisdom comes from your own past experiences.
Introspection is the tool used for mining wisdom from past experiences. If you regret a missed opportunity, have lived through a tragedy, or are just languishing in a stagnant job, turn your experience into a lesson that you can share with others. You will then have something more precious than jewels.
Also, when you begin to help others you help yourself.
Conclusion:
Seneca is correct when he says that putting things off is the biggest waste of life. But we're not perfect, and millions of people struggle with procrastination. The key is to not let your mistakes turn into a burden. What you believe about your past will dictate your future. Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion.
Ascending Order Graphic: Created in Canva: Designed by @ascendingorder
