Three Stages of Life: To Age 35

(Note: This posting was written by Steve Lake).Every person goes through three stages in their lives.  The exact age in which a person moves from one stage to the next will vary with the individual, but everyone goes through these stages at some point in their lives.

To Age 35:  The Learning Years

Until the age of 35 a person focuses on forming their identity.  The critical question is “Who am I?”  People seek to better understand themselves – their strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, values and beliefs, and personality characteristics.  Individuals are absorbed in completing their education,  beginning their careers, getting married, purchasing a home, and starting a family.  The focus is on being a success in life.There are two principal dangers during this stage of life.  The person may make poor choices in some critical decisions.  Selecting a career that is poorly suited to the person’s talents is sure to have consequences later in life.  Similarly, marrying quickly or for the wrong reasons is sure to result in later unhappiness.  A decision to start a family too soon will affect father, mother and child for years to come.A second danger lies in becoming extremely busy with work or advanced education with little thought to where life in headed.  The focus on career and compensation tends to consume a great deal of time and energy for the person, but they ultimately fail to meet some deeper needs.People in their 20’s and early 30’s desperately need an upward mentor.  This person is older, more experienced, and can provide guidance and support during these critical years.  The mentor may be a parent, older friend, or work supervisor who willingly offers counsel and assistance, if asked.