Stuck in a Quarter Life Crisis? Overcome It with These 5 Solutions!

The term quarter life crisis has been circulating widely among young people lately. During this period, we often feel worried, confused, directionless, or unsure where our lives are headed.

I have experienced it myself. When I turned 25, I felt like I had not become anything yet. Meanwhile, my friends and people my age had already achieved so much. Some had already become directors, started their own businesses, studied abroad, or become famous artists. And me? “Just” an ordinary office worker.

I became even more insecure when I saw people younger than me who were even more successful than I was. So, over these past twenty-something years, what have I actually produced / done? My youth has truly been wasted. In short, I felt that I had simply thrown away the best period of my life.

This is a brief picture of quarter life crisis. Are you familiar with this feeling? How can you recognize the signs of quarter life crisis, and what is the solution?

What is a Quarter Life Crisis?

Quarter life crisis or a quarter-century crisis is a period when young people, in the 18-30 age range, experience uncertainty, worry, and insecurity in life. At the peak of this young adult season, a person begins to review what they have done, what they have gained, and what their future will be like. Worries begin to come from every direction, from career and romance to social life and life purpose.

I once dreamed that by age 25 I would have a stable job, a house, and be married. The reality is that as I approach 30, none of that has happened yet. Perhaps you feel something similar too. You are confused or unsure whether you are already on the right path. Time keeps moving, making your worries grow even more.

Have you ever wondered what causes quarter life crisis this?

Causes of a Quarter Life Crisis

A quarter life crisis happens because of the view that this age range is the golden season of life, so all your dreams are supposed to come true right now.

There are two factors that trigger it: social and biological factors.

Socially, easy internet access and the abundance of digital content make many people believe that success can be achieved quickly. In addition, social media makes it easy for us to see other people's achievements.

These two things can certainly have a negative impact. First, those who are not successful tend to feel inferior quickly. Second, we are easily tempted to compare ourselves with others. The combination of the two, wanting quick success and comparing ourselves, eventually makes us fall into worry.

Biologically, our body's development also plays a role in bringing on quarter life crisis.

In children, the prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain that regulates decision-making, problem-solving, and emotional control) is more flexible. This is why children and teenagers like to try new things without caring about the risks.

Once we enter our twenties, prefrontal cortex gradually becomes more rigid. As a result, a person's ability to weigh risks and look far ahead becomes greater. Consequently, young people become more easily anxious and tend to think about achievement.

So, how do we overcome this quarter life crisis syndrome?

Ask for God's Guidance

Knowing where your life is headed can reduce worry in a quarter life crisis. The question is, how can we know that the direction we choose is the right one? How do you know that you are already on the right path?

The easiest way to know this is by asking for God's guidance. As James 1:5 says, “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” Yes, you can pray and ask specifically about the direction God wants for you.

God's answer may not come instantly, but it is always right on His timing. It may be that only after some time does God show it to you. Still, do not lose heart. Whatever He places in your heart, do it. Do not be afraid to try. Seek what your calling or need is. Trust that one day God's plan will become real in your life.

Stop Comparing Yourself with Others

There will always be someone better than you. Someone with a higher position or salary, a better car or phone, better finances, and so on. Social media helps trigger the feeling that ‘the grass is always greener on the other side.’ As a result, you think, “What they have, I must have too.”

The habit of comparing ourselves will harm us. It becomes hard for you to appreciate yourself. You are also driven to want what other people have, in other words, envy.

The more you harbor the desire to be “more,” the greater your risk of falling into sin. God's Word in James 1:14-15 says, “But each person is tempted when he is drawn away and enticed by his own desire. Then when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is fully grown, it brings forth death.”

So, how do we overcome it?

The answer is found in Hebrews 13:5: Keep your life free from the love of money and be content with what you have. For God has said: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” If you feel that you are enough in God, you will be guarded from envy and jealousy.

Paul is one example of a life of contentment. He had many reasons to be afraid, he was hunted, tortured, imprisoned, and even came close to death several times. Yet how did Paul respond?

“For I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.” – Philippians 4:11

Paul was no longer in his twenties, nor was he experiencing quarter life crisis. However, if we do not learn contentment from now on, then in the future we will never feel that it is enough either. Because by nature human beings always want more and more.

Of course, it is not easy to be content in the midst of a hedonistic lifestyle that constantly wants to turn you into a consumer. But when you realize that true happiness is found in contentment in God, you will not be tempted to compare yourself with others.

Do Not Worry and Hold On to God's Promises

One sign of quarter life crisis is the emergence of excessive worry. What you have planned far in advance may not necessarily succeed. We never know for sure what will happen tomorrow.

No wonder many young people feel anxious about the future. They are old enough, yet there are still no achievements. The job is still the same as in previous years. Not to mention, finding a spouse or problems in a romantic relationship.

However, in the midst of uncertainty, instability, and problems that keep on coming, this is where your heart is tested: do you dare to put your hope in God and His promises?

To face this crisis, first of all, hold on to 1 Corinthians 10:13b: “God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability.” Whatever you are experiencing right now, God will not place on you things beyond your strength!

Second, remember Matthew 6:26: “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” If God feeds the birds, surely He will also provide for your needs.

Of course, working and planning for the future are two things you must do. But when fear comes, hold on to God's promises. This will wear away at your quarter life crisis Believe that God will provide what you need at just the right time. -

In the end, do not lose heart. Even if you have not yet achieved what you dreamed of in your twenties, trust that God has a beautiful plan for you. Ask for His guidance, always be content with what God gives, do not worry excessively, hold on to His promises, and surely you will be able to overcome this crisis.

After all, who says life is only beautiful in your twenties? Your life does not stop here. As long as you are willing to grow, you will keep becoming better.

Each person's life process is different. Who knows, perhaps the pace of your life will surge in the years ahead? The best is yet to come. Most importantly, do your part, and let God do His. God can use you, no matter how old you are.

So, overcome your quarter life crisis , and live life to the fullest! Come on, enjoy and make the most of every moment and opportunity in this golden season! - References: www.inverse.com/article/33753-brain-changes-health-25-quarter-life-crisis-neurology www.idntimes.com/life/inspiration/vita/tanda-quarter-life-crisis/1 www.alodokter.com/memahami-quarter-life-crisis-dan-cara-menghadapinya-

Related Articles:

• Live Joyfully Without Being Bound by Circumstances with These 3 Steps
• Growing in Balance as an Introvert
• The Meaning of Independence: Are You Spiritually Free Yet?
• 7 Signs of a Hardened Heart, Recognize Them Early
• Adapting to New Habits, Making Peace with a New Lifestyle