The Evolution of Adulthood: When Did You Feel Like an Adult?

The experiences that shape us into adults vary greatly from one individual to another. For some, the threshold to maturity is crossed at a very young age, while for others, it may not occur until much later in life. In this reflection, we explore the story of when the author felt like an adult and the lessons gleaned from their journey.

Early Signs of Adulthood

Initially, the author felt like an adult at 10 years old, a phenomenon they describe as possibly related to autism or some other unique cognitive perspective. This early feeling of maturity is contrasted with the realities of childhood, where children are often judged less harshly and held to lower expectations. (Keyword: feeling like an adult, child vs adult)

The Journey to Maturation

The author's path to a more mature sense of self began around two to three years ago. This transformation was largely precipitated by professional and personal responsibilities. At the time of writing, the author still feels like they are living their Peter Pan fantasy, eternally youthful and unwilling to grow up.

Early Adulthood Milestones

One significant milestone in the author's journey towards adulthood was when they moved into their first apartment at the age of 25. This newfound freedom of working and living on their own brought with it a sense of responsibility and independence that was previously unknown. The author recalls being able to clean their space whenever they wished and the freedom to wake up and sleep when they pleased during their days off from work. It was a liberating experience where they could fully engage in activities like grocery shopping and making their own food decisions without the influence of others.

The Impact of Historical Events

The author's formative years were marked by significant historical events, such as the continuous NASA space launches and the assassinations of important leaders in the 1960s. These events had a profound impact on the author, shaping their perception of the world and contributing to their sense of adulthood. The author reflects on how today's societies are less likely to be shocked by such events, leading to a phenomenon known as 'future shocks,' where past traumas and events are quickly processed and forgotten.

The Journey Continues: Marriage and Homeownership

The author's definitive entry into adulthood was solidified at the age of 26 when they met and married their wife. They then made the significant decision to move into their first house, where major adult responsibilities such as making crucial decisions came into play. This period marked a turning point in their life, where the decisions they made had a lasting impact on their future.

Lessons from a Life on a Farm

Growing up on a farm, the author learned valuable lessons about responsibility at a young age. School friends were often in school while the author was out in the fields, completing tasks like seeding and harvesting. On weekends, the chores never ceased, and the author was considered a responsible adult long before they reached their early twenties. However, despite the responsibilities, the author does not feel fully grown up in their current state of living. Instead, they maintain a sense of wonder and joy, expressing belief in life, love, God, and family.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the journey to adulthood is a personal one, shaped by individual experiences and reflections. For the author, their path to adulthood was marked by marked by early milestones, historical events, significant relationships, and the challenges of daily life. The author's experience serves as a reminder that while our bodies may age, our sense of self and responsibility can continue to evolve, shaping who we are well into our later years.