Adulthood-A boring and harsh reality.

Where is that thrilling sense of freedom? The exhilarating feeling of being a young adult in my prime? Instead, I find most excitement in climbing into bed, while switching on my electric blanket and planning my next Netflix binge with snacks in hand.

Shakira Bruce-Abubakar today writes on the harsh reality of being an adult in today’s world.

“Don’t grow up too fast.” “Enjoy being young while it lasts.” “Adulthood isn’t as fun as it may look.” As children, we would eagerly share with our older loved ones our dreams of growing up, picturing a world filled with freedom, fun, adventure and endless possibilities awaiting us as adults. In response, however, they would often pop our bubbles, reminding us that adulthood is rarely as enchanting as it appears from our young and hopeful perspective. They cautioned us, that adulthood was far from the idealised vision we imagined; it wasn’t an all-access pass to fun and freedom we had hoped for, but rather a stage marked by responsibilities and limitations. 

But did we listen? Of course not.

You know that old saying, “You won’t know until you have experienced it for yourself?” Well, we children have finally reached that milestone—they call us “adults” now. We can stay up past any so-called “bedtime,” head out to clubs and lounges that used to be off-limits, listen to explicit music, and have a glass of wine (or maybe quite a few) with friends.

And let me tell you – it’s been nothing short of a disappointment.

In fact, the word “disappointment” doesn’t even begin to capture it. All those TV shows and movies that we were way too underage for (but still secretly watched behind our parents’backs) were nothing but a big, grand old lie.

Where are the spontaneous dance routines in clubs, like those from Honey or Step Up? Where are the wild nights out with friends, carefree and glamorous, like Sex and the City promised? And where are the thrilling late-night adventures around the city, like the unforgettable scenes in Girls Trip?

Where is that thrilling sense of freedom? The exhilarating feeling of being a young adult in my prime?

Instead, I find most excitement in climbing into bed, while switching on my electric blanket and planning my next Netflix binge with snacks in hand.

Is this really what adult life amounts to? If only my younger self could see this.

Far from the imagined nightlife and vibrant social life often depicted in movies and media, adulthood has been filled with unexpected realities—endless responsibilities, financial concerns, and, perhaps most surprisingly, a real scarcity of places to go or things to do on weekends and evenings. Many young adults, myself included, face a social desert of sorts, with few options for genuine entertainment, connection, or relaxation. It’s as if, upon reaching adulthood, we’ve discovered that the life we dreamed of doesn’t quite exist, leaving us searching for that missing excitement in all the wrong places.

In recent years, nightlife spots, events and weekend activities tailored for young adults have declined in many urban and suburban areas. This has left young adults with few accessible options to fill their time, connect with peers, celebrate or even blow off steam.

Increasingly, rising property prices have driven out clubs, barsand event venues in favor of high-end restaurants, office spaces, or even housing developments. Some remaining establishments often cater to an older, more affluent clientele, leaving little in the way of affordable or accessible options for young people.

According to recent surveys, many young adults report feeling frustrated and even isolated, especially as weekend options are either limited to expensive dinners or staying in with friends.And while streaming platforms or social media may seem like ready-made substitutes that can offer some good entertainment, they cannot replace the benefits of in-person interaction, engaging in activities and attending events.

The lack of places and activities for young adults doesn’t only lead to disappointment; it can also carry deeper implications. Research has shown that social isolation can contribute to anxiety, depression and a general decrease in life satisfaction, particularly among young adults who are still in formative stages of building their identities and social circles. Many young people look forward to this stage in life as a time to expand their horizons, develop relationships and experience the world beyond the classroom, only to find themselves without the places to do so.

The decline in available social spaces highlights the importance of community support and forward-thinking policies. Local governments, business owners and community leaders have a role to play in creating and supporting places where young people can safely gather, connect, and enjoy themselves. This means investing in community centers, events and venues that prioritize accessibility and affordability for young adults.

As the gap in available social spaces grows, young adults are increasingly questioning the value of living in areas where they feel disconnected and isolated. If the trend continues, young adults could leave cities and towns in search for more vibrant communities.

While many young people may enter adulthood with expectations of social freedom and fun, the reality they find often comes as a disappointment. Without places to gather, connect and unwind, adulthood risks becoming a lonely and monotonous experience for many young adults—a reality that could have long-term effects on their mental well-being and sense of community.

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.