24 & Still Figuring Out Life
This is where I’m at right now. Lost. Restless. So, I’ve decided to spend thousands more dollars on another degree to figure things out, but this time in Scotland 🏴
I’ve been programmed to think that starting over means I’m a failure, or I’m falling behind. BUT THAT’S NOT TRUE! Everyone moves at their own pace, and there is no standard to which you have to measure up.
I realized I’m not ready to settle down the way I felt pressured to in my teaching job. I want to see more of the world, meet new people, and soak in every bit of beauty I can before I even think about settling anywhere and starting a family. Is that okay? Yes.
I graduated with an English education degree in 2023, but teaching high school literature in a public school just isn’t my calling. I love teaching; I love students; but I knew that something wasn’t right, so I took a risk and quit. I needed a fresh start somewhere new, so here I am, 24, still figuring out who I am and what I’m meant to do, and stepping out of my comfort zone to move away from everyone and everything I’ve ever known.
Recently, I’ve met so many people who feel the same way, just trying to make sense of life one step at a time. If that’s you too, you’re not alone, and you aren’t a failure for being in this season💛
My parents always pictured the classic path: graduate, get a good job, get married, start a family, and settle down near them. But that’s not my reality, as the world has changed a lot since they were my age. They don’t quite understand, but I do not have to settle for a traditional life to meet others’ expectations.
I’m still discovering who I am and what God made me for. And pursuing him is more important than ‘having it all figured out.’ I don’t know what I’ll do in a year when I finish school; I don’t know what my 5 year plan is; I don’t know a lot of things.
But I do know this: I was made to honor God. And right now, I’m doing that by standing in awe of His creation: chasing waterfalls, learning about new cultures, meeting incredible people, moving to Scotland, and getting to know the Creator more intimately through His handiwork. ✈️🌍
Here’s to spending money, wandering far, and slowly becoming who He designed me to be — one beautiful place at a time.
Many young adults in their early twenties often face intense pressure to follow a traditional life path—graduating, securing a stable job, settling down, and starting a family. However, modern life increasingly shows that self-discovery and personal growth do not adhere to a rigid timeline. Embracing a fresh start, such as pursuing a new degree abroad like a masters degree in Scotland, can open doors to new experiences, cultures, and perspectives. Spending a significant amount on education, as highlighted by the concern of having spent $140k on a degree, may feel overwhelming, especially when one realizes that the true desire is to find joy in simple, fulfilling experiences—like sitting by a waterfall in Iceland. This reflection captures the profound moment many young adults experience when they reassess what success and fulfillment mean to them personally. It is essential to understand that feeling lost or restless at this stage is not uncommon—it is part of the journey toward self-awareness. Choosing to move away from societal expectations, stepping out of comfort zones, and investing in learning and exploration can help one discover their unique path. Moreover, balancing spiritual beliefs and personal ambitions can offer a deeper sense of purpose. Focusing on honoring one's values and connecting with the creator through nature and meaningful relationships provides a foundation that sustains one through uncertainty. Traveling and engaging with diverse cultures while pursuing education enrich not only knowledge but also emotional resilience and spiritual insight. For many, the decision to take a fresh start by moving abroad for further education, such as a masters degree in Scotland, is not about running away from failure but about embracing growth and authenticity. It underscores that there is no universal pace to life—everyone's journey is unique and valuable. Ultimately, choosing to live intentionally and honoring one's path, whether it involves spending money on education, chasing waterfalls, or seeking God’s will, fosters a holistic and fulfilling approach to adulthood.
Is there anyone here in there 20s that relates?