Twentysomethings who take the time to explore and also have the nerve to make commitments along the way construct stronger identities. They have higher self-esteem and are more persevering and realistic. This path to identity is associated with a host of positive outcomes, including a clearer sense of self, greater life satisfaction, better stress management, stronger reasoning, and resistance to conformity—all the things Helen wanted.

—Meg Jay, The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter--And How to Make the Most of Them Now. Highlighted Jul 5, 2025

# twenties # goals # self-concept # gumption