HS Grad limbo
Turning 18 has been frustrating, mainly because making friends is hard. In high school, there were circumstances that made it easier. I'm grateful for the friends I made, but now that I've graduated, I don't know how to make new ones.
I feel stuck in limbo, where people are either too mature or too young for me. In school, everyone was my age, so making connections was easier, but now I feel awkward talking to anyone under 18. I also feel like everyone my age is progressing with college or work, while I’m not. I thought I wanted college, but I felt forced into it and decided against it. Now I’m trying to get a job and certifications, but I feel at a disadvantage with no experience and me taking this long. The only people I talk to are my family, which is draining. I have one friend, but she’s ahead of me, so I feel like a drag. I’ve always been the weird kid ***, but learned to like and accept it, but it feels harder in "real life".
So idk what to do. I came here for help, but I got nervous and then decided against it. Im ok writing my thoughts ***. I just feel like Im the only one lost.
@Mino1522
You are NOT the only one .....
Many seem lost and graduation from high school or even sometimes college is a big change. In everyday work life people are not separated by age etc .. we need to learn to make friends or talk with many.....some whom may be older or younger and have different stories then we can even imagine.
I often found when younger like yourself... I made friends with older folks who became mentors in work and often in life .... embrace all friendship opportunities regardless ........you never know when the the person has something that will lead to an ah-ha moment or connection leading to a networking opportunity. it is amazing to me how someone i worked with a long time ago although it was for a short time may have taught me something i still use today or made me see the world in a different way ... i cannot imagine what i would be if it was not for all those whom i had a chance to be friends with.
Thats actually a idea I've ever thought about. I just thought people would just not acknowledge me for that. I still have my feeling that hold me back, but seeing another perspective helps.