You’re scrolling through LinkedIn.
Your batchmate just landed an internship.
Someone else launched a podcast.
Another friend is already freelancing.
And you? You’re staring at your screen, wondering if you missed the memo.
If you’ve ever whispered, “I feel behind,” this one’s for you.
First: You’re Not Alone
Feeling behind is one of the most common emotional experiences among Gen Z students and early career seekers.
It’s not just about jobs or grades.. it’s about identity, pressure, and the fear of being left out.
In Sri Lanka, where academic timelines are rigid and social comparison is intense, this feeling hits even harder. But here’s the truth: you’re not behind.. you’re on your own timeline.
Why You Feel Behind (And Why It’s Not Your Fault)
Let’s break it down.
You feel behind because:
- You’re comparing your inside to someone else’s outside
- You’re measuring progress by milestones you didn’t choose
- You’re overwhelmed by options but unsure where to start
- You’re scared that one wrong move will ruin everything
But here’s what most people won’t tell you:
Feeling behind doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you care.
It means you’re paying attention. It means you want more.
And that’s a good thing.
Step 1: Audit Your Reality
Before you “catch up,” ask:
What am I actually trying to catch up to?
Is it:
- A job title?
- A skillset?
- A lifestyle?
- A version of yourself you haven’t met yet?
Write it down. Be honest.
Then ask: Is this goal mine or did I inherit it from someone else?
This clarity helps you stop chasing shadows and start building substance.
Step 2: Set Micro-Goals (Not Vague Dreams)
“I want to be successful” is too vague.
“I want to build a portfolio with three real projects by December” is actionable.
Micro-goals help you:
- Focus your energy
- Track progress
- Feel momentum
- Avoid burnout
Start with one goal this week. Just one.
Maybe it’s updating your CV.
Maybe it’s messaging someone for advice.
Maybe it’s finishing that online course you abandoned.
Small wins build big confidence.
Step 3: Build a Growth Routine
Catching up isn’t about speed. It’s about rhythm.
Try this weekly structure:
- Learn: Watch one video, read one article, or attend one webinar
- Create: Write, design, build, or contribute to something
- Connect: Message one person, join one group, or comment meaningfully
- Reflect: Journal what worked, what didn’t, and what you’ll try next
This routine keeps you moving.. without burning out.
Step 4: Reframe Your Timeline
There’s no deadline for success.
Some people peak at 22. Some at 42. Some at 62.
Your job is not to rush.
Your job is to build.
If you’re in university, you’re already juggling academics, emotions, and identity. That’s a lot.
If you’re figuring things out post-school, you’re already learning how to navigate freedom and fear. That’s growth.
You’re not late. You’re learning.
Step 5: Use Comparison as a Mirror (Not a Weapon)
It’s easy to feel jealous when your friends are doing well.
But comparison can be useful, if you use it wisely.
Ask:
- What do I admire about them?
- What does that say about what I want?
- What can I learn from their journey?
Then shift focus back to your lane.
Because your story deserves your full attention.
Step 6: Ask for Help (Without Shame)
If you’re stuck, ask.
Message a senior. DM a mentor. Email a lecturer.
Say: “I’m figuring things out and would love your advice.”
You don’t have to know everything.
You just have to be willing to learn.
Final Thought: You’re Not Behind.. You’re Building
You’re not behind because you don’t have a job title.
You’re not behind because your CV feels empty.
You’re not behind because your friends are doing better.
You’re behind only if you stop trying.
So start…
Start small…
Start scared…
Start now!!
Because the future isn’t waiting.
And neither should you.
