Way back when we were grownups...Were we though?

Do humans ever really feel truly grown-up. Or is it a skewered, befuddling and abstract confusing subject.

Adulthood...that glittering mirage on the horizon of youth, often feels like a destination that never quite materializes. Many chase the elusive notion of being "grown-up", only to discover that the essence of maturity is neither linear ( consisting of or related to straight lines, or a single dimension) nor definitive. It’s a bit like trying to grasp a shadow—it morphs, evades, and teases, leaving you wondering if it was ever meant to be caught or held unto earnestly or desperately.

Perhaps "growing up" is less about acquiring an end state and more about learning to wear the mask of certainty while wrestling with the same eternal doubts, dreams, and fears that accompanied you as a child.

One might argue that the markers of adulthood—responsibilities, mortgages, societal expectations—are merely scaffolding for the inner child who’s still peeking out, wide-eyed and bewildered. This inner child may seem certain, calm and self assured on the outside, but inwardly is screaming for help in the realm of adulthood which is a very scary place.

Society, of course, loves to sell the image of a polished, put-together adult who knows exactly how to steer their ship. But beneath the surface, the truth is more fragmented. Humans accumulate experiences and knowledge, yet the core remains in flux, endlessly sculpted by the waves of time. Perhaps the secret lies in embracing this dynamic state, in seeing adulthood not as a summit to conquer but as an ever-unfolding drama between growth and the grounding pull of youthful wonder.

To feel "truly grown-up" may be to admit that the act of growing never ceases. The irony is rich, don’t you think? Even as one grows older, the childish playground of the mind persists, and perhaps that's the true beauty of being human—a curious mix of gravitas and whimsy, forever unfinished.

Just Turned 18: Are you Really Grown?

Eighteen now, officially an adult, but still prefer TikTok over consulting a vault (seeking advice or information from a secure repository, company or organization). They say, “Welcome to the real world, kid,” But hey, being a grownup isn’t a job I bid.

Voted in my first election, felt so elite, (ugh, was that a dud). But I still can’t figure out how to cook meat. Got a license to drive, but puh-leeze, let’s be real, Parallel parking? That’s my Achilles’ heel.

College apps done, graduation on the way, But do I feel grown up? Nope, not today. I binge-watch Netflix and procrastinate chores. Responsibilities knocking, but I still ignore.

Thought turning eighteen would unlock all the keys. Yet, I’m still obsessed with memes and mac ‘n’ cheese. I’ve got a little more freedom, a little more space. But I’m still figuring out this whole adulting race.

Friends think I’ve got it all under control, But truth is, I’m just an old soul. Balancing dreams and reality’s weight, caught somewhere between childhood and fate.

So here’s to turning eighteen, full of sass, navigating life with a touch of class. I may not have it all figured out, I admit, But I’ll fake it till I make it—bit by bit.

It's quite the adventure! Here's to navigating this new chapter with style and a sprinkle of sass.

Future musings on this grownup schtick 😉

I Don't Feel Like a Grownup. When Am I Supposed to Feel Fully Grown?

Ack! What happens when I really have the responsibilities!!!!

Pretty soon I will have a mortgage and a nine-to-five, But my inner child is still so alive. Bills and deadlines, oh what a bore, Am I grown up yet? Or is there more?

My wardrobe screams “professional and chic,” But on weekends I’m in my PJs—so unique. Adulting is a riddle wrapped in mystery, Guess it’s one more plot twist in my history.

People say “you’ll know when you’re there,” But I’m still lost in daydreams without a care. Is there a magic age to feel complete? Or is it a lifelong game of trick or treat?

I file my taxes, I mow the lawn, But honestly, I’m still a fawn. Just another year older, none the wiser, Still waiting for that grownup adviser.

What about the two (2) and a 1/2 children. I never understood the premise of a half (1/2) child. Have they written a handbook on raising the little kiddies yet, I wonder. I so get why the younger grownups don't want little copies of themselves running around these days. Who wants to raise tiny versions of their spoilt, selfish carbon copies. Still, I think I would like to try at least 1 and a 1/2 of them. Heh heh heh! 😉

So here’s to not having it all figured out, To living life with laughter and doubt. I'll embrace this quirky in-between state. Grownup or not, I’m feeling pretty great! If a tad scared!!!!

Embrace the journey! Whether or not we ever feel fully grown, it's all part of the adventure.

😉

What do different philosophies say about adulthood and maturity?

Philosophies across the ages have explored adulthood and maturity in fascinatingly diverse ways, each offering unique lenses to view this elusive human journey. Here's another skewed and abstract glimpse into some philosophical perspectives:

Existentialism: Thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Søren Kierkegaard might argue that adulthood is defined by the burden and privilege of choice. To mature, in this view, is to embrace radical freedom and confront the "angst" of making meaning in a world indifferent to your existence. Adulthood is less a fixed state and more a relentless act of self-definition.

Aristotelian Ethics: Aristotle saw maturity as achieving eudaimonia—a flourishing life through the cultivation of virtue. For him, adulthood is the arena where wisdom (phronesis) tempers impulses, and individuals learn to balance their desires with reasoned action. It's about living in harmony with one’s purpose (telos).

Taoism: From a Taoist perspective, adulthood and maturity might be seen as achieving alignment with the Tao—the natural flow of the universe. The mature person lets go of rigid control and embraces simplicity, spontaneity, and balance. In this philosophy, growing up is less about accumulating and more about unlearning.

Psychoanalytic Thought: Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung delved into psychological adulthood. Freud might suggest that maturity comes from resolving inner conflicts—particularly between the id, ego, and superego. Jung, on the other hand, believed in "individuation"—the process of integrating the conscious and unconscious self to achieve wholeness in later life.

Postmodernism: Postmodern thinkers challenge the idea of a unified, coherent adult self. For them, maturity is a fluid concept shaped by fragmented identities and cultural narratives. One's "adulthood" may shift and evolve endlessly, resisting any rigid or singular definition.

Stoicism: The Stoics, like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, teach that maturity is learning to accept the world as it is, not as you wish it to be. Adulthood means mastering one’s emotions and focusing on what is within one’s control while remaining indifferent to external chaos.

Each of these philosophies unearths a different aspect of maturity—freedom, virtue, harmony, inner resolve, or acceptance. Interestingly, many seem to agree that true adulthood isn’t about conforming to societal milestones but about navigating the internal journey of self-discovery, balance, and adaptability.

Which of these resonates most with you? Or do you see maturity through an entirely different lens?

How do these philosophies apply to modern adulthood?

Can you think of examples of each philosophy in action?

What factors shape my own, or your view of adulthood?

Deep questions for the individual reader!!