Why Your Late Twenties Is the Worst Time of Your Life (2024)

Summary.

The “quarter-life” crisis experienced by many 20- and 30-somethings typically involves four stages:
1. Being locked into a commitment (relationship, job, housing, etc.)
2. Ending that commitment, and now feeling isolated
3. Internal reflection, followed by exploring new interests
4. Emerging from the crisis much happier and with a greater sense of purpose

It feels horrible at the time, but research suggests that going through this crisis is extremely valuable as we age. Folks in their 40s and 50s have higher stress levels than their younger counterparts, but they don’t jump into crisis mode. Why? Because those coping mechanisms that they developed as young adults have continued to strengthen. The pains of being a 20-something may feel terrible when you’re in the middle of it, but it improves our lives in the future.