- It is crucial to redefine success. Instead of viewing it as a competition, we should see it as a personal voyage. Some may find success early, while others may take longer to discover their path—perfectly fine. Rather than conforming to societal timelines, the focus should be on personal growth, contentment, and joy.
As we enter adulthood, we are bombarded with a checklist of milestones society expects us to achieve: graduate by 22, land a lucrative job, own a car, buy a house, get married, and start a family—all before hitting 25.
Fueled by family and social media, these societal pressures paint a picture of success that seems to be on a strict deadline. But is life truly a race against time? Or have we allowed external influences to dictate our journeys?
In the past, success followed a simple formula: education, career, marriage, and stability. Previous generations found success following this path.
However, the modern world presents more challenges. Job opportunities are scarce, the economy is unpredictable, and personal growth varies greatly among individuals.
Yet, young adults are under pressure to achieve everything by 25. Social media exacerbates this pressure, showcasing highlight reels of luxurious lifestyles, exotic vacations, designer clothes, and seemingly perfect lives.
Comparing ourselves to influencers, celebrities, and peers who appear to be ahead in life only adds to the anxiety.
The struggles hidden behind the facade—debts, sacrifices, mental health issues, as well as the pressure to maintain a facade of success—are often overlooked.
Success is not confined to a timeline. Many well-known figures took their time before reaching success. Oprah Winfrey was fired from her TV job before becoming a media icon. Colonel Sanders started KFC in his sixties, and Jack Ma faced numerous job rejections before founding Alibaba.
These stories remind us that everyone's journey is unique, and the rush to achieve everything by a certain age is a myth.
Many people make life-altering decisions to conform to societal norms—entering unhappy marriages, going into debt to appear successful, or settling for jobs they hate for temporary financial security. But is living for external validation genuinely fulfilling?
When we base our worth on meeting external expectations, we risk losing sight of what truly brings us happiness.
It is crucial to redefine success. Instead of viewing it as a competition, we should see it as a personal voyage. Some may find success early, while others may take longer to discover their path—perfectly fine. Rather than conforming to societal timelines, the focus should be on personal growth, contentment, and joy.
Success is not about how quickly you achieve things but about the significance of the journey. Whether you buy your first car at 25 or 35, start a business at 20 or 50, or choose to remain single, what matters most is living a life that aligns with your values—not with the expectations of others.
The idea that one must have it all by 25 is a myth perpetuated by unrealistic standards and social media comparisons. Everyone's journey is unique, and that's okay.
Instead of racing against a timeline that doesn't fit you, embrace your path at your own pace. As C.S. Lewis wisely said, "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
