An Almost-Quarter-life crisis

Once, my best friend and I got talking about the fact that we were very nearly 25 years old, and what we had to show in life, what we'd really managed to achieve after twenty five years of existence. There were famous CEOs, startup founders, pop stars who had achieved so much before that age, like fame, money, and most importantly, a purpose and direction in life. We, on the other hand, are still trying to find our way in the world, still confused, and unsure about life's next step.

These people have managed to find their passion very early, and made it their life's work. They have a very real love for what they do, and they put their heart and soul into it. Money would be a consideration, but not a priority. That they make money, is secondary. I've always envied and admired artists, poets, writers and sports persons for that. They have the courage to step out of their family's and society's boundaries and make their own world, and own rules. They have the strength of conviction to believe in themselves, even if no one believed in them. Most of us go through life without that passion, that whole-hearted love for something, and we miss out on a great deal.

But then, I thought, that, while these people may be famous and rich, they also have the burden of too many expectations on their shoulders, at a very young age. They miss out on the small things of life, such as having family meals, hanging out with friends, and even a simple walk in the park, simply because they have no time, or they don't make the time. They are so busy working, that, many times (with exceptions), they forget to be simply happy. That is something I would not want to trade for all the achievements, fame and money in the world.

So, I think that, maybe I haven't achieved as much as I would have liked by the time I'm twenty five. But I have so many memories which would make me smile when I look back: Deep conversations with my best friend, sitting in the sunlight by the river, family time, or just reading a really good book. I think I like myself as a person, and I'm happy. I still have time for all my ambitions and dreams, but I don't want to miss out on the moment.