This thing called quarter-life crisis and how to conquer it
Three years ago, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I asked God to give me a job. Every day, I would pray for employment opportunities. On Sept. 7, 2020, He granted my request. I was ecstatic. Indeed, prayers can move mountains.
From then on, my life became meaningful and purpose-driven. I have something to look forward to every day. I was also excited to collect stories and memories from my new job. This is my routine: Write down my to-do list the night before, with strategies on how to become more efficient and effective. I really want to accomplish my work quickly without sacrificing quality. The sense of fulfillment I get every time I meet my boss’ expectations is incomparable. How can I ask for more when I’m literally living my dream of getting paid for indulging my passion, that is, reading and writing?
Reading is my favorite pastime because it expands my imagination, enhances my emotions, inspires me to accomplish great things, leads me to places I haven’t visited yet, helps me understand and appreciate different religions, cultures and traditions, and increases my vocabulary. When I encounter words not commonly used, I study them and then they become part of my vocabulary. Truly, the more one reads, the better a writer he or she becomes.
Writing a journal is a recreation I am fond of. It’s like taking a photograph as it immortalizes everything that is happening to me. I capture each moment by truthfully writing down what has transpired. Writing is an effective outlet as well when I have problems. It has a therapeutic effect and allows trapped thoughts in my mind to spill out. More importantly, it enables me to analyze my feelings.
My job includes writing letters, drafting contracts, and preparing memoranda. It also requires me to travel and meet new people from time to time. My job always excites me and the salary is good. Yet, I’m beginning to have doubts. These past few weeks, I’ve been asking myself these questions: Is this what I’m fated to do for the rest of my life? Why am I not getting any credit or at least a tap on the shoulder for a job well done, and/or for all the efforts that I’ve exerted in accomplishing the tasks assigned me?
I’ve also realized that because I value my job so much and commit my best to the work that I do, I have unwittingly ignored or neglected the other aspects of my life. I now feel that I need to give some time to myself. I long to indulge in my hobbies such as watching the movies of Liam Neeson and my favorite TV series “The Walking Dead,” and reading John Grisham’s novels. I think I need to learn new skills, too.
It is my fervent hope that our lawmakers would enact a law allowing a four-day work week to give workers more time for friends and family, and for hobbies, vocations, studies, etc. We sometimes become too focused on our careers that we forget to pay attention to equally important things that are essential for our survival and sanity.
Quitting my job might give me some time to indulge in my hobbies and learn new skills, but how do I say goodbye to a job I already fell in love with? As much as I’d like to take things slow, breathe, and avoid stress, I cannot just leave my work. After all, it groomed me into a successful individual. Life has been good to me and I will be forever grateful. As long as I have a heart full of gratitude, a sunny disposition, and an unshakable faith and self-confidence, I know I can conquer this thing called quarter-life crisis.
