
Yet another interesting discussion sparked by the bright minds in #u30pro. My friend Jon Klar shared,
“I think social media is making it much easier to grow up too fast. Young professionals need to remember to be young while they can”.
Social media platforms have allowed me to tap into so many resources that wouldn’t have been available to me otherwise. I learn new things from thought leaders, I connect and engage with professionals that I never would have had access to, I’ve developed mentorships, I’ve shared my own ideas with a large audience and the list of benefits goes on...
…but is it a double-edged sword?
I’m 22 but I don’t feel like it. My ’09 graduation feels like it was a lifetime ago.
I now work full time, run #u30pro, maintain my blog, engage with my network regularly and more… I have more things going on since I graduated about 7 months ago than many people I know who have been working for years. Without social media, I wouldn’t have so many opportunities, but I also wouldn’t have so many responsibilities.
I don’t think I’d have it any other way. I’m in a phase of my life where I am very career focused and I’ve set many high goals for myself. I realize that I have to make some sacrifices in order to achieve those goals.
…and I’m still enjoying my personal life. I still go out on weekends. I still hang out with my friends regularly. I still get my share of video game time in there.
And when I look at many of my old high school buddies and what they’re doing, I don’t feel envious of the extra time they have to “be young”…I feel lucky to be gaining so much experience so quickly. I feel like I’m spending my time wisely.
In 10 years, will I look back at my 20’s and wish I spent less time building my career?
Am I growing up too fast? Are you?
(Perspective of those who have been there and done that are welcome and appreciated)