When It Feels Like Everyone Has It Together but You

As we get older, the stress of the “real world” really starts to kick in. Suddenly, there’s pressure to be the perfect adult — to have the dream job, the impressive salary, the Pinterest-worthy home, the well-styled wardrobe. And if you’re not quite there yet? It starts to feel like you’ve somehow failed.

And in today’s world, that pressure is relentless. It’s not just coming from the people you know — it’s on your phone, in your feed, and in your face 24/7.Your favorite influencer is buying a $3 million home before the age of 25… and you’re wondering if that €4 coffee just overdrew your bank account.

I get it.

As someone who recently graduated with a master’s degree and is still struggling to find her place in a really tough job market, I know what it feels like to think, “Why hasn’t it happened for me yet?”

The pressure to look like you’ve got it all together is exhausting.The stress of constantly comparing yourself — even when you're happy for others — is heavy.It’s not that I’m not proud of my friends or family. I am beyond happy for their success and everything they’ve worked for. But it’s hard when your own hard work hasn’t quite paid off yet. When you're still waiting for your moment.

And no, I don’t mean that being unemployed or struggling is okay by choice. It’s not easy — and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. But what I’ve learned is that it is okay to not be okay. To admit that you're still figuring things out. To not have all the answers yet. To still be trying.

This year has been one of the hardest for me. There have been days where I’ve felt incredibly lost. But I’m still here. I’m still showing up. I’m still hoping that my time will come — that soon I’ll have the freedom to travel without guilt, shop without doing mental math, and order that overpriced coffee without feeling like it’ll ruin my month.

If you’re going through a tough time right now, this post is for you.You are not alone.I’m in it with you — feeling the weight, doing my best, and trusting that brighter days are on the way.Let’s keep our heads high. Our time is coming.