Future plans

Hi everyone,

Thank you for taking the time to read my post and listen to my concerns. As a young adult entering today’s workforce, I want to share some of the challenges many of us are currently facing in the economy.

It is no secret that economic conditions have shifted in recent years. Factors such as supply chain disruptions, inflation, and international trade policies—including tariffs—have contributed to rising costs for everyday goods. As a result, many essential items have become more expensive due to limited supply and increased demand. According to recent economic trends, inflation has significantly impacted housing, healthcare, and transportation costs, placing additional strain on individuals trying to build stable lives.

As I reflect on my own future, I find myself concerned. I hold a degree in Human Services, yet I often feel overlooked in the job market. Many employers prioritize candidates with years of experience, which raises an important question: how are young professionals expected to gain experience if they are not given opportunities to enter the field?

I understand that organizations want qualified and experienced individuals. However, consistently bypassing entry-level candidates creates a cycle that prevents growth within the workforce. Fields such as healthcare and human services are especially critical, and new professionals are essential to sustaining and expanding these industries.

Additionally, accessing healthcare support, including programs like Medicare and other assistance services, has become increasingly complex. Many individuals struggle financially, yet fall into a gap where they earn too much to qualify for assistance but not enough to comfortably cover all expenses. Living costs extend beyond rent and utilities—people must also pay for insurance, transportation, home maintenance, and unexpected emergencies. These realities are often overlooked in eligibility assessments.

This situation can feel deeply unfair. At the same time, we are seeing significant increases in housing and commercial property costs. In some areas, office spaces and rental units have reached prices that are difficult for small businesses or individuals to afford. Historically, homeownership and renting were more accessible, but rising material costs, labor expenses, and market demand have made both increasingly challenging.

Small businesses are also facing difficulties. While platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and Poshmark have made entrepreneurship more accessible, they have also created highly competitive markets. In addition, marketing and advertising costs can be substantial, making it harder for new businesses to grow and stand out.

Despite these challenges, I remain committed to building my future. I am working full-time, pursuing better career opportunities, and continuing to develop my business and blog. I am also considering returning to school, although this may involve taking on additional student debt. Today, many careers require certifications and licenses, adding another layer of financial and time investment.

Like many others, I question why wages increase while the cost of living rises alongside them, often offsetting any financial progress. My goal is to eventually purchase or build a home, and I have been working toward independence since a young age, including purchasing my first car on my own.

If you share similar experiences or concerns, I encourage you to speak up and connect with others. It is important that the voices of everyday citizens are heard, and that the challenges we face are acknowledged and addressed.

Thank you for reading.