Adulthood Isn’t a Checklist—It’s a Journey (And You’re Not Behind)

At some point, most of us wonder if we’ve somehow fallen behind in life.

We scroll through social media and see people our age graduating, working full-time, moving out, travelling, launching side hustles — and meanwhile, we’re just trying to get through the week.

If that’s you, let me gently say this:
You’re not behind.

Who Says There’s a Timeline?

The idea that we all need to hit the same life milestones by a certain age is completely made-up.

Everyone moves through life at their own pace.

Some people know what they want at 15.
Others still feel unsure at 25, or even 35.
Some follow a straight path.
Others zigzag, pause, restart, pivot.

And that’s all okay. There is no one “right” way to grow up.

What If Adulthood Isn’t a Checklist?

We’re taught that success means ticking off boxes:

✅ Finish school
✅ Go to uni or TAFE
✅ Get a full-time job
✅ Move out
✅ Settle down

But life isn’t that neat. And those boxes?
They don’t always lead to meaning or fulfilment.

Real adulthood is about:

Learning who you are
Discovering what actually matters to you
Creating a life that feels aligned and sustainable

Growth Isn’t Always Linear

The most important steps in life often don’t look shiny or impressive on the outside.
They look like:

Starting over
Making hard decisions
Saying no (even when it’s uncomfortable)
Asking for help
Taking care of your mental health

Figuring it out is part of the process.
You’re not “behind” for still being in the middle of that.

A Note from Me

In my coaching work, I meet so many young adults who feel stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed by where they think they should be.

We talk. We reflect. We slow things down.
And most of the time, they realise they’re not as lost as they thought.

If this sounds like you, please know:

You’re not alone
You don’t need to have it all figured out
You’re allowed to take things one step at a time

Whether through coaching or just chatting with someone you trust — give yourself permission to take the pressure off.

You’re doing okay. Truly.

Want Help Figuring Out Your Next Step?

If you’re navigating early adulthood and need support making sense of it all, I’d love to help.

School → Uni → Work → Life. Support for your next step.