Twenty-five

Barbara

Today marks a quarter-century since I came into the world: the big 2-5. Soon, I'll be sitting on a beach celebrating my birthday — but before deserting South Dakota for warmer temperatures, I have some evaluating to do.

At 25, I've done pretty well for myself. Really, I can't complain about where I am in life. I have a lovely home, a good job, and generally I am healthy (with a few upgrades). However, over the past year I've felt a little...restless.

In the words of one of my favorite crooners , I keep wondering: "Am I living it right?" 

For some reason this antsy feeling has taken over and I find myself questioning the choices I've made. Those anxious and uncertain feelings may be part of something bigger — a quarter-life crisis , perhaps?

Some of you may be right there with me. After graduating, it takes some time to adjust to adulthood. It's pretty normal to think, "Is this it? Seriously, this is life from 9-5 until retirement?" The repetition can feel tedious.

What's a quarter-lifer to do?

For me, the past year was an opportunity to shake up the monotony with new activities and involvement. I started volunteering  and took up a new hobby. It's amazing how adding something new into the mix can give you a fresh perspective. And I hope to continue to shake it up at 25 with some goals for my personal and professional life.

So for now, I'm happy being a somewhat complacent quarter-lifer.

And one final note for you: While I will not be buying a small sports car  like someone going through a mid-life crisis , I am planning to celebrate with one extravagance on my vacation — going parasailing  (pending optimal weather conditions and minimal acrophobia)! 

Now, I'm off to bask in the sun!