The downfall of Rory Gilmore has begun! As graduation pictures and videos flood our feeds, a new generation is stepping into adulthood. Gen Z, with its quirks and aesthetics, is rewriting what early adulthood looks like. With “I’m Just a Girl” playing in the background, grab your chunky cups and metal straws; it’s time to face the post-graduation crisis in the most aesthetic way possible.

ChatGPT Starter Packs & Canva Mood Boards

Step one of your rebrand is to visualise it. Ask ChatGPT to create your early adulthood starter pack, that starter back will make you feel equally called out and deeply understood. From there, decide what parts of your college aesthetic you’ll carry forward and what you’ll leave behind. Build your own Canva mood board with snippets from your current life: the pen that was your study session staple, the accessories that make you feel put-together, the wallet that feels so you-coded. It’s all about crafting a visual identity that screams your vibe. Happy rebranding.

Big Sister Content Creators

Stepping into adulthood with TikTok and Instagram aesthetics in your face can be overwhelming. Suddenly, you want everything: a full-time job, to become a runner, to launch a fintech start-up, maybe even do that MBA that looks way too tempting. But here’s the thing: your feed matters. Following creators who reflect your current path can make your journey lighter. If you’re in the 9–5 grind, look for influencers who budget smartly, share realistic routines, and post office-fit inspo. If you’re leaning toward business ownership or athletics, follow voices who live those lifestyles and actually motivate you instead of making you resent where you are. The right content should help you love your life more, not less.

Experiment, but Commit

Early adulthood is for experimenting: try solo living, travel to a new city, test out new routines. But as you explore, also build your brand’s core. Decide on the non-negotiables: the values, boundaries, and energy management strategy. This will keep you grounded and prevent burnout. Experiment with the details, commit to the foundation.

Embrace Boredom

Adulthood isn’t university. The chaos of shifting lecture schedules gets replaced by steady, repetitive days. It’s calm, but can also be tedious. And that’s okay. Learn to embrace the stillness. Take walks when the only thing on your agenda is being bored. Don’t make big life decisions just to escape monotony. Sometimes the quiet is where you recharge.

Back to the Roots

This one might sting: some of the advice you rolled your eyes at from your parents actually checks out. A bad mood often is cured by sunlight and a walk. Yes, you do need to go outside more. And no, treating yourself daily won’t get you far; saving money on the side does pay off eventually. Sometimes, going back to basics is the most radical rebrand of all.