Wondering if you peaked too early.
WONDERING IF YOU PEAKED TOO EARLY.
Follow for more candid reflections on navigating post-grad life.
That jump from the hallowed halls to the cubicle farm is a weirder, tougher transition than anyone prepped us for. We spent years in an ecosystem designed for high achievement, surrounded by brilliant minds, where success felt measurable and celebrated. Then, the "real world" hits, and it’s messy. The metrics change, feedback loops disappear, and the purpose that fueled those all-nighters can feel elusive.
It’s easy to look back at our campus years – the vibrant debates, groundbreaking projects, feeling at our peak – and wonder if that was it. This question, "Did I peak too early?", often whispers alongside imposter syndrome in a new role, the pressure to constantly prove ourselves, and the silent struggle with mental health in a demanding professional landscape. It’s a heavy mix.
You’re not alone if you feel lost, overwhelmed, or even just underwhelmed by the daily grind. The perfectionism that served us in academia can become a heavy burden when success isn't always linear or immediate. It's okay to feel this dissonance, to redefine what success looks like for you now, beyond prestige and accolades. This transition is about building a new foundation, knowing growth is uncomfortable, and recognizing your worth isn't solely output-driven. Be kind to yourself. The journey is just beginning, and it’s valid to feel all of it.