An Ordinary Age

More about the book

Young adulthood is often seen as a time when anything can happen, creating immense pressure to ensure that it does. While social media is frequently blamed for the unhappiness of this generation, deeper issues like wage stagnation, student debt, perfectionism, and high living costs may have a more significant impact on young people's lives. The narrative focuses on the obsession with portraying a #bestlife, shaped by a culture that sets narrow and often unattainable standards. Young adults face increasing demands, from unpaid internships to a loneliness epidemic, all while trying to "find themselves" through education and work. This relentless pressure leaves little space for introspection about personal identity and meaningful living. The pursuit of fulfillment is overshadowed by societal expectations, diverting attention from what truly matters: nurturing strong relationships, establishing community ties, and exploring individual desires beyond social media portrayals. The author argues that many pivotal moments in young adulthood are found in the ordinary experiences—building connections, learning self-care, and discovering one's true self when stripped of external validations like GPAs and job titles.