“You’re only young once.” It’s a phrase I’ve heard from teachers, adults and my own parents more times than I can count. A reminder, a warning, maybe even a cliche. But as I navigate the seemingly endless cycle of school— thousands of hours spent in classrooms, staring at deadlines, scrambling to submit assignments before 11:59 p.m. on a Friday night—I can’t help but wonder: when do we actually get to enjoy being young?
Between the pressure of grades, expectations and the imminent future, I’ve spent more time glued to a screen than I’d like to admit—mindlessly scrolling or gaming to distract myself. And yet, every now and then, a nagging thought creeps in: why am I wasting the time I’ll never get back? Could I be doing more? Should I be doing more?
This constant cycle led me to a question many young people struggle with: After graduation, should we take time to explore the world while we’re young and free, or should we focus on building a foundation—further education, working, saving money, grinding—so we can enjoy life later, in our 40s and 50s?
Society is split on the issue. Some argue that youth is the ideal time for adventure. A survey from ACIS Educational Tours suggests that traveling to a foreign country in your youth offers valuable experiences, especially before major responsibilities take hold. On the other hand, a study from the National Library of Medicine highlights that financial security is key to truly enjoying travel, and that it’s often more affordable when you’re financially stable. But is waiting until midlife the answer? What if, by then, the excitement of exploration has faded? What if the opportunity never comes?
These questions led me to realize that finding a balance between both paths can be incredibly beneficial. Striving for a better future and taking on responsibilities—like family, work and taxes—are, of course, important. But traveling at a young age can offer opportunities to shape self-identity and broaden perspectives. If we don’t allow ourselves the chance to grow and explore, we risk hindering our mental well-being and our overall attitude toward life.
Many people argue that traveling is too expensive, especially with rising inflation rates. However, there are ways to explore amazing destinations without breaking the bank. The key is not to spend recklessly, but to plan smartly and utilize cost-saving strategies. According to an article from Fidelity Investments, being flexible with your travel dates can significantly reduce expenses. By booking trips during off-peak seasons or taking advantage of last minute deals, travelers can find more affordable flights and accommodations, making it possible to see the world without overspending.
I believe this ongoing debate may never be fully resolved, as there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The choice depends on what aligns best with your goals and values, which will vary from person to person. However, whatever path you choose, make sure to choose wisely, because as they say, “You’re only young once.”
