Life After College: The Messy Reality You Don’t Have to Face Alone

Let’s get real for a second: life after college is not what they promised. The “dream” of waking up to a job you love, paying your bills on time, and having it all together? Yeah, that’s more of a myth than anything. Instead, we’re navigating a world where things change faster than you can say “student loans,” and the Instagram-perfect lives we see only add more pressure. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone in feeling like you’re still figuring it all out. Seriously.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re somewhere in that weird space between "I graduated and now what?" and "How do I make this work?" Maybe you’re grinding through your 9-to-5 job (or even multiple jobs), trying to balance the reality of adulting with your own dreams and aspirations. Maybe you’re learning how to save money without feeling like you’re giving up every ounce of joy in your life. Or maybe you're diving into side hustles, trying to carve out a path that feels like it’s really yours. It’s messy, it’s stressful, and some days you wonder if anyone really has it all figured out—or if that’s even possible.

But listen, that’s the point. No one does. The struggle, the confusion, the chaos—it's part of the process. And you’re not going through it alone, even if it often feels like it.

This blog is for the people still trying to catch their breath after the whirlwind of college life. It’s for the ones who aren’t sure where their career is headed but are working hard to figure it out. It’s for anyone who feels like the world is moving faster than they can keep up. The ones trying to save money without giving up their latte habit. The ones balancing full-time work with side hustles that feel like a second job. It’s for you—because in this messy, chaotic world, there’s comfort in knowing that we’re all navigating it together.

Life after college isn’t supposed to look the same for everyone, and that’s okay. Some people might land their “dream job” right out of the gate. Some of us take a few detours before we find our way. And that’s the beauty of it, isn’t it? We’re all writing our own stories. The key is to remember that it’s not about having it all figured out—it’s about embracing the messy reality and making peace with the journey.

The Rollercoaster of Adulting

Remember the “real world” speeches you heard in college? Yeah, those did not prepare you for the actual rollercoaster. One minute you’re high on a new job, feeling like you’ve finally made it, and the next you’re buried in bills, deadlines, and wondering if you’re even on the right path. Spoiler alert: you probably are, even if you don’t always feel like it.

Take it from someone who’s been there: working as a sports anchor wasn’t something I saw coming when I was in college. There were countless moments when I felt like I was chasing something bigger than me, juggling multiple jobs, and trying to survive. And I won’t lie—some days felt like a complete mess. But those messy days? They taught me more than I ever could have imagined, and trust me I'm still living them. They taught me that growth often comes from the places we least expect it. It taught me that there’s value in the struggle, even when it doesn’t feel that way.

And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably had your fair share of moments where you thought, “Am I doing this right?” Let me tell you—most of us feel that way.

Slowing Down in a World That Won’t Stop

The thing is, the world keeps moving. The demands of life can make it feel like you’re constantly sprinting from one task to the next, trying to get ahead while barely keeping up. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to keep up with everything. You don’t have to have it all figured out today, tomorrow, or next week.

That’s what this blog is all about. It’s about slowing down, taking a breath, and giving yourself permission to be in the process, not just the end result. This space is here to remind you that it’s okay to not have every answer right now. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn along the way. No one has it completely figured out, and that’s the beauty of being human.

So, if life is moving a little too fast and you need a place to catch your breath, you’ve come to the right spot. Whether you’re trying to figure out how to balance a side hustle with your main gig, or wondering how on earth you’re supposed to save for the future while still living in the present, this space is for you, because I am right there with you. Life doesn’t have to be this overwhelming race—it can be a journey, one step at a time.

Navigating the Side Hustle Life

Let’s talk about side hustles for a second. Because if you’re not working one right now, you probably know someone who is. We live in a world where the 9-to-5 gig is no longer the only option. For many of us, side hustles aren’t just a “fun thing” on the side—they’re a necessity. It’s about building a future where you have control over your income, your time, and your life. But let’s be honest: side hustles can also feel like they’re taking over your life if you’re not careful.

It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, constantly trying to juggle multiple projects while feeling like you’re never doing enough. But finding balance is key. Your side hustle should empower you, not drain you. And I believe that balance is possible—it just takes some intentional effort and boundaries, so let's learn them together. The whole idea of "hustle culture" can get overwhelming, but in the right context, side hustles can be a powerful tool for creating the life you want. This blog is here to give you the support and mindset shifts you need to make it all work, without losing yourself in the process.

Money, Money, Money: Navigating Finances Like a Pro

And then there’s the issue of money. Let’s face it: no one really teaches us how to manage our finances in school. Sure, we get some vague advice on budgeting, but what does it really mean to save money, plan for the future, or pay off debt while also living in the present? It’s a balancing act that’s often easier said than done.

But here's the truth: learning how to manage your money is one of the most empowering things you can do in your twenties and beyond. Whether you're figuring out how to build an emergency fund, navigating student loan payments, or just trying to make your paycheck stretch further, there are practical ways to make your finances work for you. And I’m here to teach you what I learn as I walk through life—no judgment, no shame, just real talk.


So, whether you’re still figuring out your career, learning how to handle your finances, or just need a reminder that everyone is a little bit lost sometimes—this blog is your place. Life after college doesn’t have to be as overwhelming as it seems. We’re all in this together, and I’m here to help slow things down, break it all down, and remind you that you’ve got this.

Take a deep breath—you’re not alone. Let’s figure it out, one step at a time.

Comments

Most Viewed

My photo
Cathleen Doisher
Hey there! I'm Cathleen—call me Cat. I’m a 20-something navigating life after graduation. Six months ago, I finished my journalism degree at the University of Montana (well, almost—I'm one business class shy of a minor, but who's counting?). I’m living proof that success doesn’t always follow a straight path. I’m currently working as a sports anchor at a local news station, living my dream of covering sports and chatting with cool people. But let’s be real—this industry doesn’t exactly make you rich right away, so I keep busy with side hustles. Whether it’s baking cakes or running groceries, I’m always juggling something to make ends meet. Life might be hectic, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I share my life here to remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. Whether you need lifestyle tips, a bit of inspiration, or just a laugh, I’ve got you covered. As my friends say, my life’s like a movie—because, trust me, the drama is real. Thanks for stopping by!