Quarter to 30

Real Talks, Real Goals, Real Growth

Maryam Kaisi Published on 17 April 2025 | 10:25 GM+2

Tick tock, tick tock! The clock is moving, and it’s time to start making real adult decisions. The types of invitations you receive speak volumes—no longer just birthdays and hangouts, but weddings, baby showers, career milestones, and farewell parties. You may find yourself wondering: Is time moving too fast? Am I falling behind? The answer is simple: No. You’re just stepping into adulthood.

Adulting: A Bittersweet Milestone

Growing up is a rewarding journey, especially when you’re seeing progress toward your goals. But it can also feel discouraging if you haven’t checked off as many boxes as you expected by your mid-to-late 20s. In todays highlight-driven world, it’s easy to feel like you’re behind.
So, when is the right time to lay the foundation for adulthood? Ideally, experts suggest that developing strong habits during your teenage years gives you a head start. But if you’re already in your 20s—or beyond—don’t panic. There's still plenty of time to take control of your future.

1. Start Saving and Investing Early

Savings — Your future wealth starts with today’s choices.

Unless you're backed by a trust fund, your late 20s are for building—not blowing—your finances. Now’s the time to practice discipline, learn from your money mistakes, and start saving—even if it’s just a little. Explore investments that grow over time, because while retirement may seem far off, compound growth waits for no one. The earlier you begin, the stronger your financial foundation becomes.

2. Pursue That Dream—No More Waiting

Whether it’s writing that book, buying a home, or traveling the world, this is your sign to start. The perfect moment may never come, but progress doesn’t require perfection. What small step can you take before this year ends to move closer to your goal? You might be one decision away from your breakthrough. Start where you are. Begin now.

3. Stop Trying to Please Everyone

One of the most liberating truths you’ll discover in your late 20s is that it’s not your job to please everyone. This season is about choosing you—your growth, your healing, your joy. Be intentional with your circle. Let go of relationships that feel heavy, draining, or one-sided. Whether romantic, familial, or platonic, anything that disturbs your inner peace has no place in this chapter. Surround yourself with people who uplift, not weigh you down.p>

4. Avoid the Comparison Trap

Social media can often amplify feelings of inadequacy, as people tend to share only the highlights of their lives. Keep in mind that what you see online isn’t always the full picture, and focusing on your own path will serve you better in the long run.

5. Embrace Mistakes as Lessons

Mistakes are inevitable, but they’re also valuable learning experiences. Your 20s are a time for trial and error, and every misstep teaches you something new. Instead of fearing failure, reflect on your decisions, adjust accordingly, and keep moving forward. Growth comes from learning, adapting, and striving for self-improvement.

Final thoughts

Anyway, time keeps ticking. Tick tock, tick tock! Now, go get ready for that wedding.or you can simply share how best one can prepare for adulthood based on your experience.

References

Author: Maryam Kaisi

Senior Content Creator & Blog Writer

Maryam is a PhD student at Yemyung Graduate University in South Korea, with a Master’s degree in Public Management—specializing in Public Administration and Leadership—from the prestigious Korea Development Institute (KDI) School of Public Policy and Management. With over 8 years of professional experience, she is a seasoned journalist and a dynamic communications specialist, skilled in crafting and executing impactful communication strategies. Maryam brings expertise in change communication, campaigns and advocacy, social media management, community mobilization, outreach activities, and project management. Her blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and communication acumen makes her an invaluable contributor to the blog—ensuring content that not only informs but also inspires and engages diverse audiences across sectors.

Reviewer & Editor: Enoch Singano

Lead Tech Researcher & Senior Blog Writer

Enoch Singano is a global-minded Cybersecurity Specialist and Tech Researcher from Malawi, with a strong foundation in ethical hacking, defensive security, cryptography, and emerging technology security. With a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology and over 15 industry-recognized certifications, he has contributed on the international stage—representing Africa in the 2022 International CyberSecurity Challenge (Greece), winning the 2023 Lesotho Public Financial Management Hackathon, and being selected as an Internet Society Youth Ambassador for the 2025 cohort, where he advocates for a secure, safe, and inclusive internet.
Enoch’s work is driven by the escalating cybersecurity threats posed by disruptive technologies such as quantum computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). His current research focuses on post-quantum encryption methods to secure IoT devices—a critical effort to ensure data confidentiality, integrity, and resilience in smart homes and connected infrastructure across Sub-Saharan Africa. This mission aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 9 and 11, as he champions innovation, robust digital infrastructure, and safer, smarter communities in emerging economies.