Finding Your Footing in a New Season of Life

Written By Wareesha Sohail
Journal and pen with a warm mug of tea on a cozy knit blanket near a sunlit window, symbolizing reflection and life transitions — therapy blog by Sohail Counseling & Care in Illinois and Michigan

There’s this strange pressure in your 20s and early 30s… like you’re supposed to know exactly where you’re going, have your dream job lined up, be in the perfect relationship, maybe even own a house by now. And yet, so many of us are quietly thinking: I don’t feel steady at all. Am I already behind?

If that’s you, you’re in good company. I hear it from emerging adults all the time, and honestly? I’ve been there too. This season of life is messy, transitional, and full of anxiety that doesn’t always make sense on paper.

Why it feels so hard

Your brain craves routine and stability. When life keeps shifting; jobs, relationships, cities, even your own sense of identity; your nervous system throws up red flags. Suddenly you’re restless, comparing yourself to everyone online, and wondering if you’re doing it “right.”

And then there are the “shoulds.” By now, you should have it figured out. By now, you should know who you are. By now, you should feel settled.

Except… who decided that?

Some signs you’re in this season

  • You feel both excited and terrified about the future

  • You keep asking yourself if this job/relationship/city is “enough”

  • You’re exhausted by the constant comparing… but you can’t stop scrolling

  • You’re craving stability while also fearing you’ll get stuck

If you recognize yourself here, you’re not failing. You’re just in the middle of growth; growth rarely feels comfortable.

What helps?

◦ Find an anchor. Not everything has to change all at once. A morning ritual, a weekly friend date, or a cozy routine can give you something steady to hold onto.
◦ Give yourself permission for mixed feelings. Relief and sadness can sit side by side. So can hope and fear. It doesn’t mean you’re confused; it means you’re human.
◦ Name the “shoulds.” Ask: Do I actually want this, or do I just think I should?
◦ Let the timeline be flexible. Your life isn’t behind. It’s just unfolding at your pace.

A gentle reminder

Finding your footing isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about letting yourself stand where you are right now, even if it feels shaky, and trusting that this season is part of your story; not the end of it.

Wareesha Sohail