When I Grow Up: conversations with adults in search of adulthood

Journalist Moya Sarner explores the complexities of growing up, questioning the traditional markers of adulthood and discovering new ones. She investigates how we grow and develop and what we need to thrive throughout our lives through conversations with grown-ups and her own experiences and training.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 09 June 2022
Publisher: Scribe Publications

When do we become adults? What does it mean to grow up? And what are the experiences that propel us forward — or keep us stuck?

These are the questions that journalist Moya Sarner sets out to answer as she begins training as a psychotherapist. But as she delves further into her own mind and others, she soon realizes that growing up is far from the linear process we imagine it to be. So begins a journey of discovery into what growing up really involves, and how we do it again and again throughout our lives.

From early adulthood through to old age, When I Grow Up examines each life stage, interrogating the traditional markers of adulthood and finding new ones. Through conversations with grown-ups from all walks of life, and through her own experiences and training, Sarner probes deep into our psyches to discover how we grow and develop, and what we need to thrive throughout our lives.

Growing up is a complex and multifaceted process that involves physical, emotional, and social development. It is a journey that we all take, and it is shaped by a wide range of factors, including our genetics, our environment, our relationships, and our own personal experiences.

One of the key challenges of growing up is navigating the transition from childhood to adulthood. This transition is marked by a range of physical changes, such as the growth of our bodies and the development of our sexual organs. It is also marked by emotional changes, such as the development of a sense of self and a greater understanding of our emotions and the emotions of others.

Another challenge of growing up is developing a sense of identity. This involves exploring our values, beliefs, and interests, and finding ways to express ourselves and connect with others. It can be a difficult process, particularly for young people who are trying to find their place in the world.

Growing up also involves learning and adapting to new situations and environments. This can involve learning new skills, such as reading, writing, and problem-solving, as well as adapting to new social and cultural norms. It can also involve navigating difficult relationships and dealing with challenging situations, such as bullying, abuse, or trauma.

Despite the challenges of growing up, there are also many positive experiences that can help us thrive. These include developing close relationships with family and friends, pursuing our passions and interests, and achieving our goals and aspirations.

One of the key factors that can help us grow and develop as adults is self-awareness. This involves being aware of our own strengths and weaknesses, and being willing to work on ourselves and our relationships. It also involves being open to feedback and learning from our mistakes.

Another important factor that can help us grow and develop as adults is resilience. This involves being able to cope with difficult situations and setbacks, and finding ways to bounce back and move forward. It can involve developing a support network of friends and family, and seeking professional help if needed.

Growing up is a continuous process that involves learning and adapting to new situations and environments. It is a journey that we all take, and it is shaped by a wide range of factors, including our own personal experiences and the experiences of those around us.

In conclusion, growing up is a complex and multifaceted process that involves physical, emotional, and social development. It is a journey that we all take, and it is shaped by a wide range of factors, including our genetics, our environment, our relationships, and our own personal experiences. Despite the challenges of growing up, there are also many positive experiences that can help us thrive. By developing self-awareness, resilience, and a support network, we can navigate the transition from childhood to adulthood and develop into healthy and happy adults.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 157 x 218 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913348007