Is 20 The New 80?

As I sit here thinking about my past few weeks, and weekends I can't help but think "What happened to my young, wild and free 20's?"


I don't know if this is how everyone feels once they hit the most anticipated decade of their life, but I'm feeling a little gypped.  Hollywood has deceived me my entire youth.  The idea that after college life just keeps getting better is one that I am here to disprove.

I am sitting here on a Saturday night because I am too broke to go out.  I thought once I graduated college, money would come free flowing and I would never have to think about it again.  I was convinced that the money tree's would pop up, I wouldn't have to work, I would have a penthouse NYC apartment and would live like the queen.

Today's Reality: I am (what feels like) a career student currently in school again, and saving every penny.  Going from having a full time job for a couple of years, to a full time student is a very humbling experience.  At least it gives me an excuse to eat Ramen noodles again..

I am sitting here on a Saturday night because I do not think I would be able to round up 5 friends to go out with.  In college I was surrounded by friends.  Every day had a name associated with drinking and a reason to go to the bar.  Coming by friends to go out with was even easier, as there was what seemed to be a never ending supply.

Today's Reality: If finding friends was a college course I would have a solid F.  My home friends moved away, my college friends moved in with boyfriends and other's moved to other states, and I only have a few co-workers that are still hanging around. It is a baffling to have what seems like too many friends, and be unable to give them a call at a moments notice and hangout.

I am sitting here on a Saturday night because I am stuck in a rut.  Life used to be so unpredictable and exciting.  Everyday was a new adventure and the sky really was the limit.  If I didn't want to go to class because I wanted to go on a hike, I didn't have to.  If I wanted to spend the whole day with friends I could.

Today's Reality: Everyday is exactly the same.  There is no time to be spontaneous with work, school, and interning.  Weekdays are full, and weekends are used to get just enough strength up to get through the week.

So here I am at 24 stuck in a rut.  I thought this was only for married couples of 50+ years.  How do I change my life?  How do I make my 20's those magical years that we always talk about and rave about.  I want to change it up, and for once listen to the advice of those in Hollywood.  I want to take control.

Whose with me?