She Strengthens

Rethinking the Timeline

As I stand at the threshold of 27, I’m forced to confront the arbitrary expectations I set for myself a decade ago. Back then, I thought I’d be married by now, just like my parents were at 24. But life had other plans.

The Idolization of Age

I idealized 27 as the perfect age to tie the knot – old enough to be mature, yet young enough to have a few years of freedom before starting a family. But it was all theory, devoid of context or logistics. I didn’t have a boyfriend, let alone one I could see myself marrying.

Life Gets in the Way

Fast-forward to today, and I’m in a five-year relationship with someone I want to build a life with. But instead of getting engaged, we started a business together. It’s been an incredible journey, but it means my original timeline will come and go, unfulfilled.

The Pressure to Conform

We’re not alone in our decision. Many friends are facing similar pressures to conform to societal expectations. They’re in their late 20s, single, and feeling like they’ve failed themselves. They had a vision of what they wanted to achieve by a certain age, and now they’re starting over.

The Unproductivity of Arbitrary Standards

It’s easy to see how unproductive it is to hold onto arbitrary standards we created years ago. But when it’s our own life, it’s harder to let go. We feel like we’ve failed ourselves, like we’re not the mature, all-knowing adults we thought we’d be.

Finding Pride in the Present

I’ve learned to focus on living the best life I can today, rather than dwelling on what didn’t happen. I’ve accomplished things I never thought possible, and I’ve learned to prioritize quality over quantity in my relationships. I’m proud of the person I am, and I know there’s still more to achieve.

Letting Go of Timelines

When friends talk about being “still single” or lowering their standards, I want to remind them that they’re so much more than their relationship status. They’re accomplished, brilliant, and beautiful, and they deserve to take pride in who they are, regardless of their age.

Giving Yourself Permission

Maybe it’s time to let go of the age you need to be. Maybe it’s time to focus on the things that did happen, rather than the things that didn’t. Give yourself permission to be the person you are today, and watch how your perspective changes.