Asking All Them Questions

Millennial life is interesting. I absolutely love it, but I feel like there’s pressure to have it all together- life, career, marriage, family… everything. 

Going out can sometimes feel like an interview when I run into people I haven’t seen in a while who want a full life update on demand. There have been several times where I’ve come into interactions where I say to myself, “I know they’re going to ask…”

I took to Instagram to ask my fellow millennials what questions they’re usually asked, and I want to unpack a few. 

What are you doing with your life?

This is the question many graduates, especially those without jobs, dread. I remember getting this question after graduating and trying to put together the best answer possible. 

“Well… I just graduated but I’m applying here, here and here.” 

The reply to that was always, “Okay, maybe you should look here, here, or here.” 

I would then think to myself, “Don’t you think I’m trying?”

Nothing is wrong with this question, but there has to be a certain awareness when asking. If a person isn’t openly talking about where they’re applying or what they’re planning to do, don’t bring it up. 

I remember wanting to hide in a hole after trying to impress others with what I was “planning,” but it continued to confirm that nothing was lined up. 

There are many people applying to tons of jobs daily and receiving “no’s” or nothing at all, so it’s important to be sensitive because you never know how hard they’re working being the scenes to secure the bag. 

What kind of job do you plan to get with that major? 

College students get this one all the time, especially those majoring in the arts or social sciences. 

It’s a fact that not everyone’s interests are the same. I admire the millennials who pave their own route and do things outside the box. 

As a communication arts major, I heard, “That must be easy. All y’all do is give speeches all day.” 

HAAAAAAA! I wish! 

The classes were tough and the assignments were rigorous, not to mention the senior capstone. It wasn’t until I showed people my work or notes that they saw it wasn’t as easy as it seemed. The same goes for several other majors that look easy from the outside. 

When are you getting married?

If I had a quarter for every time I’ve been asked this, I’d be retired on a tropical island with a virgin margarita in hand. 

The Business Insider reported that millennials are being strategic about finding the right person. Several want to be financially secure before settling down. 

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with marrying young. Multiple have found their special someone and have chosen to wed, but that’s not for everyone right now. 

When asked this question, I normally respond with, “I’m just working on me right now.” I usually get some laughs, but it’s true. 

Some of the best advice I’ve ever heard is that you never go into a relationship wanting someone to complete you. Don’t go in 50/50. You bring 100% and the other person brings 100%. 

I understand that no one’s perfect and perfection shouldn’t be required in getting into a relationship. Although, I believe there’s a level of responsibility, maturity, confidence and financial stability that every individual needs before marriage. 

Many millennials also want to make use of the time not being tied down. We want to live in a few cities or states, travel the world, start a business, etc. before committing to someone. 

When are you having kids?

This is a very sensitive question. Many people may ask young couples this out of love or excitement, but it has to be done carefully. 

There are couples who simply want to enjoy each other before adding a bundle of joy into the mix. They also may want to travel, invest, or enhance their career first. 

It’s also important to consider that some may need time to properly plan to care for a child because they’re not cheap!

On the other hand, there may be couples who are trying to start a family but haven’t been successful. This question may bring up emotions they don’t want to express in public. 

I’m interested to know what other questions you’re asked. Let me know in the comments below!