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

Moya Sarner's journey as a psychotherapist explores the complexities of growing up, revealing that it is a nonlinear process that involves discovery and repetition throughout life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 11 January 2024
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 embarks on a journey of self-discovery and exploration. But as she delves deeper into her own mind and the minds of others, she quickly realizes that growing up is far from the linear process we imagine it to be. So begins a quest to uncover the true essence of what it means to grow up, and how we can continue to do it throughout our lives.

Growing up is a complex and multifaceted process that involves a myriad of physical, emotional, and social changes. It is a journey that begins at birth and continues throughout our lives, shaping who we become and the experiences we have. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when we become adults, there are certain milestones that mark the transition from childhood to adulthood.

One of the most significant milestones is the attainment of legal adulthood, which typically occurs at the age of 18 or 21 in most countries. This marks the point at which individuals are granted full legal rights and responsibilities, including the ability to vote, enter into contracts, and drink alcohol. However, it is important to note that legal adulthood is not the same as emotional or psychological adulthood.

Emotional and psychological adulthood is a more gradual process that involves the development of self-awareness, self-esteem, and a sense of independence. It is a journey that begins in childhood and continues throughout our lives, as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that come our way.

One of the key experiences that propel us forward in our journey to emotional and psychological adulthood is education. Education provides us with the knowledge, skills, and tools we need to navigate the world and make meaningful contributions to society. It helps us develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a sense of empathy and compassion for others.

Another important experience is personal growth and development. This involves exploring our interests, passions, and values, and developing a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. It can involve pursuing hobbies, traveling, learning new skills, and engaging in self-reflection and introspection.

Relationships are also crucial in our journey to emotional and psychological adulthood. They provide us with a sense of belonging, support, and validation. Healthy relationships help us develop our social skills, build trust, and learn to communicate effectively.

However, growing up can also be challenging and difficult. We may face a range of obstacles and setbacks, including financial difficulties, relationship problems, and personal trauma. These experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or stuck.

It is at times like these that we need to rely on our resilience and strength to overcome these challenges. We can seek support from friends, family, or professionals, and use our experiences to learn and grow. We can also focus on developing self-care practices, such as exercise, meditation, and healthy eating, to support our mental and emotional well-being.

In conclusion, growing up is a complex and multifaceted process that involves a range of physical, emotional, and social changes. It is a journey that begins at birth and continues throughout our lives, shaping who we become and the experiences we have. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when we become adults, there are certain milestones that mark the transition from childhood to adulthood.

Emotional and psychological adulthood is a more gradual process that involves the development of self-awareness, self-esteem, and a sense of independence. It is a journey that begins in childhood and continues throughout our lives, as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that come our way.

One of the key experiences that propel us forward in our journey to emotional and psychological adulthood is education. Education provides us with the knowledge, skills, and tools we need to navigate the world and make meaningful contributions to society. It helps us develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a sense of empathy and compassion for others.

Another important experience is personal growth and development. This involves exploring our interests, passions, and values, and developing a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. It can involve pursuing hobbies, traveling, learning new skills, and engaging in self-reflection and introspection.

Relationships are also crucial in our journey to emotional and psychological adulthood. They provide us with a sense of belonging, support, and validation. Healthy relationships help us develop our social skills, build trust, and learn to communicate effectively.

However, growing up can also be challenging and difficult. We may face a range of obstacles and setbacks, including financial difficulties, relationship problems, and personal trauma. These experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or stuck.

It is at times like these that we need to rely on our resilience and strength to overcome these challenges. We can seek support from friends, family, or professionals, and use our experiences to learn and grow. We can also focus on developing self-care practices, such as exercise, meditation, and healthy eating, to support our mental and emotional well-being.

Dimension: 198 x 129 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914484902