Quarter-life crisis

> One in three Malaysians in their 20s, 30s affected

YOUNG Malaysians are facing increasing pressure to succeed personally and professionally before they turn 30. According to a survey by LinkedIn, 32% of males and 29% of females say they’ve definitely experienced what psychologists would call a “quarter-life crisis” in their 20s or 30s. The figures point to one-in-three affected.

“Quarter-life crisis” is the feeling of not being satisfied with where a person is in their life, and that time is running out. This can cause anxiety or depression among young people of both genders.

The survey based on 1,003 employed young Malaysians, found that about three quarters felt pressured to succeed in relationships, their career or finance matters, even with the majority of both genders having full-time jobs.

Finding a job or career they are passionate about was a major trigger of anxiety in both males and females.

“If you’re finding it hard to find the right job or career that you love, or achieving financial security for yourself and your loved ones, you’re not alone.

“It’s so important to seek advice or find a mentor when you are facing pressure within and outside the workplace. Talking to someone you can trust will help you assess, address and beat that quarter-life crisis,” said Linda Lee, LinkedIn’s head of Communications for Southeast Asia and North Asia.

Survey findings revealed many young Malaysians want career advice but do not have the right connections; one-third of both genders have changed their career entirely, either starting again in a new sector or role; while half of the respondents feel that they’re not getting enough support in their workplace to help with their career progression.

In an effort to help young Malaysians address job and career challenges, LinkedIn has created a Career Advice hub where members can connect with career mentors to seek advice – be it a career switch, managing finances, learning opportunities or helping with work-life balance.

Employers too have a huge role to play in supporting young employees. With more companies looking to hire young Malaysians, these organisations will be in a better position to attract and retain talent if they offer career guidance, mentorship, and learning and upskilling opportunities, to help employees succeed in their role.

Understanding what millennials want is crucial as it gives them the opportunity to achieve their potential and grow with the company.