The Bittersweet Reality of Adulting

ENTERING adulthood is like stepping onto a stage you didn’t audition for. You might have an idea of the script, but the lines are often improvised, and the setting can change with a late notice. For many Gen Zs, the transition into this new chapter is a rollercoaster ride filled with highs and lows.

The Struggles to Find the Right Way

Via, 22, shared her experience, which was filled with both challenges and rewards. When she first stepped into adulthood, she described her feelings as a mix of ‘lost and still searching.’

This was because Via’s graduation, which was supposedly a joyful milestone, pushed her into a sea of uncertainty.  

“I struggled with searching for what am I supposed to do, where and how am I supposed to suffice the needs for myself and more for my family,” she recalled. The weight of these questions often pushed her into a dark corner of self-doubt, a common feeling among young adults in this adulting stage.

At night, Via would lie awake, being tormented by the fear of time slipping away.

“I felt so scared, not scared of having responsibilities, but scared of time,” she admitted. It was not the responsibilities that frightened her; it was the feeling of being left behind, as if luck had abandoned her.

The realization that adulthood is slowly coming at her hit Via, who claimed to have felt anxious and desperate for clarity when it happened.

In those moments, Via prayed to seek answers. This shows that young adults like Via, search for guidance and reassurance when faced with chaos of new responsibilities.

The Sweet Rewards of Growing Up

Despite the mix of emotions, Via began to taste the sweet rewards of adulthood. Slowly, she started to celebrate small victories.

“I get to realize that I am achieving small goals step by step,” she shared. Each day presented new opportunities for Via, whether it was to master new skills or discover her own capabilities – they were small accomplishments that gradually built her confidence that allowed her to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Even building meaningful relationships became another highlight of her journey, as Via discovered the joy of connecting with others who understood her struggles and aspirations.

“I get to build meaningful relationship, have freedom, and make my own choices,” she reflected. Via’s newly found freedom empowered her to embrace opportunities, illustrating the duality of adulting: although it can be overwhelming, it also opens doors to personal growth and fulfillment.

More importantly, Via’s greatest achievement is her ability to finally support her family financially. Being in a position to give back filled her with gratitude and pride.

“I feel confident and grateful that I can now help financially and give back to my family and support them,” she said. This sense of responsibility transformed her perspective on adulthood, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.

Balancing Independence and Support

Life, as Via soon learned, is unpredictable. Each day brought new challenges that often left her feeling unsure. Fortunately, she has a family who communicates openly.

“Inside our home, my family is open to things and understands when someone from us needs support,” she explained. This lets her turn to them for support whenever she’s in a dilemma.

However, there were moments when Via chose to keep her struggles to herself, pushing herself to be independent. “I need to figure it out on my own so I can know and learn how I should do one task or dwell with it,” she shared.

This again shows the reality of adulthood: the balance between seeking support and embracing independence, making it a bittersweet stage where you no longer solely rely on others, but also yourself.

Reflecting on this journey, Via has come to understand that everything happens for a reason.

“I notice that during my rock bottoms, it always comes with that note, or I would sometimes say, ‘Maybe there would be another chance, another time, and another door will open,” she shared. With this mantra, she learned to remain hopeful during tough times.

Via’s faith has also played a crucial role in her perspective.

“I always have faith in God’s perfect timing; He knows when is the right time for us,” she emphasized.

Trusting in a higher power’s timing has provided her with comfort, reminding her that although self-determination is important, kindness, confidence, and courage are equally essential. This balance has been a huge factor in Via’s journey to exploring adulthood.

Her story uncovers the bittersweet reality of adulting – a stage in life with new struggles and victories. Indeed, adulthood is hard, but it is incredibly rewarding. Its bittersweet nature teaches us that although these new challenges are intimidating and often make young adults feel lost and overwhelmed, within these challenges lie opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

With reports from Bea J. Larosa