Modern media has always treated the topic as if it was the end of something significant — a time to wave the proverbial white flag. In the 1989 cult classic film When Harry Met Sally, Meg Ryan’s character is told, “You’re 31 years old and the clock is ticking.” In Something Borrowed, Ginnifer Goodwin’s character hears the line, “You’re 30, you can’t be picky.” Oh, and there is an entire Friends episode dedicated to each character’s 30th birthday.
I turn 30 this month. Contrary to popular sentiment, I have always been excited by the prospect of growing older, especially in my late twenties, but it feels different this time — largely because it is. It is the literal beginning of a new decade, and the anticipation of my 30th birthday makes me feel the way I feel every New Year’s Eve. Reflective and regretful, hopeful and cynical. I feel proud of the person I am, but I also feel like I’m not where I want to be. I don’t feel old yet I feel like I’m running out of time to do all the things I want to achieve. It feels like there are years of possibility ahead of me, but also that it’s too late to make any real change in my life. There’s a lot I feel like I should have done by now but I’m not even anywhere close. I’m not married. I have no kids. I don’t have my own place. Against all the measures of conventional success, I fall short in every way. But I also know I’m not the only one who feels like this.
This story is from the November 2023 edition of ELLE Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 2023 edition of ELLE Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Swipe For Love Right
Is finding LOVE IN THE DIGITAL AGE easy? Four women of different ages speak up about the highs and lows of dating apps.
Was Working 1195 1145 Tor At Billionaire Worth It?
What started as a dream job began to look increasingly like a nightmare.
A New Frontier
Best known for its bespoke leather bags, here’s why Ethan K’s surprising foray into womenswear is one to keep an eye out for.
In Fashion, Hope And Change
From the bio-revolution to new legislation, there are signs that a change for good is underway.
The LOST art OF relaxation
Burnt out? Struggling to focus? Living on hyper-alert? You're not alone-in a post-pandemic world, our nervous systems are shot, and a booming industry is looking to cash in. JOANNA ELLNER explores the wellness buzzword of the moment and calls for a radical rethink of relaxation.
THE magic OF Marseille
France's grittier second city is leaning into its edgier side-and we're all heading south for it.
WHAT'S beef?
Impeccable service meets stunning decor and mouthwatering meat dishes at COTE Korean Steakhouse.
the art of Living
Fashion houses at this year’s Milan Design Week showcased the best and latest in home and product design, with every piece telling a story of innovation and style. Here are some of the highlights you'll want to get your hands on.
Cultural revolution
YUEQI QI's works take on myriad forms. But above all, they love letter to her Chinese heritage.
A Family affair
CHARMAINE HO travels to La Serenissima to discover the magical artistry and history of Buccellati.