By the age of 25, many individuals may encounter a quarter-life crisis, though in my case, this phase seemed to arrive a year earlier.
Living in a developing country has illuminated the reality that pursuing one’s passion is often a privilege. In my youth, I bravely acknowledged this harsh truth. However, as I stand eight years down this path, I am grappling with its profound consequences.
My love for writing has been a constant companion, leading me to pursue a degree in communications during my college tenure. The sheer delight I experienced while writing transcended mere excitement—it embodied a deep sense of satisfaction. Writing evolved into my sanctuary, a platform to advocate for change, illuminate societal issues, and articulate my thoughts coherently. I exuded confidence, optimism, and an unwavering determination.
I vividly recall the cautionary words of our college professors on the inaugural day of classes, warning us of the limited financial prospects in Mass Communication. Despite the skepticism, I remained steadfast in my pursuit of happiness. The ensuing four years were undeniably the most gratifying period of my life, igniting a fervor within me.
However, the harsh realities of the world soon encroached upon my idealistic bubble. Securing a job at a media firm post-graduation provided a sense of fulfillment, even if the compensation fell below standard wages. The onset of the pandemic marked a turning point. The media outlet I worked for ceased operations, misinformation proliferated, and the freedom of expression was under siege. Amidst economic turmoil and stagnant salaries, my enthusiasm as a writer dwindled. Five years later, the once-bright flame of passion had dimmed, drowned in disillusionment.
I came to the stark realization that while passion fuels fulfillment, it alone cannot shoulder the weight of financial responsibilities—bills, familial obligations, securing a future, and realizing dreams. Life demands a balance between desires and practicality, especially for those without a safety net of wealth. I should have been more discerning, acknowledging the constraints that hindered my pursuit of dreams.
Guided by the advice to consider the 4Ps—passion, people, purpose, and provision—in job hunting, I now recognize the importance of sustenance in pursuing one’s passion. Passion ignites motivation, a supportive network aids in challenging times, purpose grounds values and objectives, and provision—often overlooked—is crucial for sustaining one’s pursuits. These principles now guide my quest for a new opportunity, as I reflect on the industry I once aspired to join, where financial struggles are commonplace despite its societal significance.
As I reflect on my journey, I ponder whether my pursuit of passion was self-indulgent and sustainable. The unanswered questions linger, questioning the prudence of choosing passion as a livelihood.
Despite the common belief that youth offers ample time to realize dreams, time itself has become a scarce commodity in today’s world.
Approaching 25, I find myself entangled in a labyrinth, yearning to progress yet feeling immobilized at the starting line. Each day brings unmet expectations, unresolved trauma, and mounting pressure.
In my youth, I envisioned peers settling down, starting families, advancing careers, and exploring the world. Yet, I navigate each day, grappling with financial constraints, contemplating how to stretch each paycheck, and seeking solace in small luxuries to preserve sanity. The notion of marriage at 25, once a distant dream, now seems implausible without a significant other. The economic climate deters thoughts of parenthood. Diluting shampoo with water to maximize usage, seeking guidance from astrology apps, and attributing misfortunes to cosmic events have become routine.
With a few months left until my 25th birthday, I anticipate its arrival with dwindling passion and subdued enthusiasm. Amidst this quarter-life crisis, I muster the strength to confront challenges, rekindle my inner fire, and cling to the hope of favorable cosmic alignment.