Why Worrying Is Normal: Navigating Uncertainty in Adult Life

Have you ever noticed how, as we get older, our minds start filling up with more and more “what ifs”? Back when I was a teenager, my biggest worries were things like exams, fitting in, or getting into the right school.

I used to think adulthood would mean more freedom. But instead of school stress, now it’s things like job security, ageing parents, bills, relationships, loneliness, and health issues. It’s like the worry never left — it just changed form and followed me into every new stage of life.

If that sounds familiar to you, I want you to know you’re not alone.

I’ve come to realise that so many of us — especially working adults — carry invisible burdens every single day. And even though it might feel like something is wrong with us for being anxious or overwhelmed, honestly… it’s just a normal part of life now. Let me break it down from my own experience.

How Worry Changed As I Got Older

When I was younger, most of my anxiety came from school, friendships, and trying to figure out what I wanted to be. Back then, at least there were teachers, parents, or someone around to guide me.

But once I became an adult, it all shifted. I had to make my own decisions — and live with the consequences.

Suddenly, I was stressing about things I never thought I’d face: whether I’m saving enough, if I’m doing right by my loved ones, whether I’m being a good son, partner, or just… keeping it together while life throws curveballs.

I’m 35 this year, and honestly, the past few years have been really rough. I made some bad life choices, ended up on the verge of bankruptcy, and dragged my family and even my partner into the mess. It’s something I still carry heavily.

My mum isn’t in great shape either — her memory’s not what it used to be, and she struggles with her mood. She can’t fully take care of herself anymore.

On top of that, my own health has taken a hit. I’m not sleeping well, my energy is low, and although I’m on a fitness journey, I’ve learnt the hard way that being fit doesn’t always mean being healthy.

I know some of you might be going through things that are even tougher. But to me, adulthood often just feels like a phase where everyone’s quietly trying to survive and not break down from all the pressure.

It’s not that we’ve become more emotional — life just got more complicated.

Why I Think Adulthood Feels So Anxious

There’s no roadmap once you’re an adult. No syllabus, no teacher. Just one decision after another — and each one can feel like it could make or break your future.

Here’s what I think contributes to that constant unease:

• Making endless decisions: Do I change jobs? Should I get a house? Can I even afford to raise a family?

• Comparing ourselves: Seeing others on social media “winning at life” while I feel stuck in survival mode.

• Carrying responsibilities: Looking after my mum, trying to support others while also keeping my own life afloat.

• Health concerns: Getting older makes me more aware of every ache, every drop in energy, and what it might mean long-term.

• Feeling alone emotionally: Like I have to be the strong one all the time and can’t show that I’m struggling too.

So if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately, know this — it doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you care.

Learning to Live With the Worry

Something that’s helped me shift my perspective is realising that worrying can actually be a sign of love and responsibility.

I worry about my mum because I love her. Parents worry about their children because they want to protect and support them. We stress over work and savings because we want security for ourselves and the people we care about.

Worry isn’t the enemy — it’s just part of growth. The real challenge is not to get rid of it completely, but to stop letting it drain all our energy and joy.

These days, when I catch myself spiralling, I try to pause and ask, “What is this feeling trying to tell me?”

Sometimes it’s telling me to slow down. Sometimes it’s a sign I need to reach out and ask for help.

And that’s what I’m learning to do — slowly, day by day.

How to Cope With Life's Uncertainty

Here are a few things that have helped me personally deal with anxiety and the chaos of adult life:

1. I stopped saying yes to everything.
I used to feel bad turning people down, even when I was already mentally and physically drained. But I’ve learnt that protecting my time is necessary. Even just 10 minutes of quiet time each day makes a difference for my mind.

2. I started journaling.
Nothing fancy — sometimes just a quick note in my phone. But writing down what’s been stressing me out helps me clear my head. Once I see it on paper, it’s easier to figure out what’s real and what I’ve been overthinking.

3. I talk it out with someone I trust.
There were times I kept everything bottled up, thinking I had to be strong. But honestly, opening up to a close friend, a coach, or even a therapist makes a huge difference. Just voicing things out makes the weight feel lighter.

4. I try to focus only on what I can control.
There’s so much in life I can’t predict — and I’ve wasted a lot of energy trying to control the uncontrollable. These days, I try to keep it simple: sleep on time, eat proper meals, get some movement in, and stay away from too much negative news. Those little things keep me grounded.

5. I move my body.
I’m not always in the mood for intense workouts, but I’ve found that even a walk helps me feel better. Movement clears my head and improves my mood. Doesn’t have to be perfect — I just aim to move a bit every day.

6. I’ve learnt to accept the bad days.
Some days I feel like I can take on the world. Other days, I’m barely functioning. I used to beat myself up over that. Now, I try to remind myself it’s normal. Feeling low or unproductive sometimes doesn’t mean I’m failing — it just means I’m human.

Conclusion: You’re Not Broken — You’re Just Human

Adult life is messy. It’s full of unknowns, late-night worries, and silent stress. But that doesn’t mean you’re failing. In fact, if you care enough to worry — it shows that you’re deeply human.

Managing anxiety in adulthood isn’t about becoming a perfect, calm robot. It’s about learning to ride the waves of life with more awareness and support.

If you’re reading this and thinking “That sounds like me” — you’re not alone. Share this with someone who might need it. Or just take a breath, and remind yourself: you’re doing the best you can. And that’s more than enough.