Most people my age think about next weekend’s plans — not the next 80 years. But I’m already thinking about the kind of woman, leader, and version of myself I want to be at 30, 60 — even 100.

I refuse to believe power peaks at twenty. This intentional planning has given me clarity and a positive outlook on the future. While it might seem daunting or even scary to think about aging, you can do it too. Because the truth is: I’m not afraid of aging — I’m afraid of waking up at 50 and realizing I lived on autopilot.

Planning for a 100-year life doesn’t kill your youth — it gives it purpose.

The Pressure to Peak by 30 Is a Scam

These days it’s all about the now. The newest songs, trends, and ideas. We scroll through TikTok and see 25-year-old millionaires or 22-year-olds on private vacations in Bali. Social media has increased the pressure to “have it all together” early on. We’re told to be successful, smart, beautiful, and likable before we hit 30 — but not how to age with power.

It’s not just social media. Our education system feeds this mindset too. School lacks financial literacy and long-term planning, focusing on exams over legacy and purpose. In college, we’re asked to pick a major but never shown how to build a mission.

No wonder so many people feel lost when the world stops clapping for their glow-up and starts ignoring their growth. Long-term planning can feel scary or pointless when you can’t visualize the future. Many young people feel they don’t have the time or power to think that far ahead.

The Default Path Is a Trap — Especially for Women Who Want More

Most people take the default path. They avoid thinking about the future altogether, adopt an “I’ll figure it out later” mindset, set only short-term goals like “get a job” or “save $1,000,” or prioritize fast wins like quick cash and viral success.

Because of this, they overwork or “hustle” without a long-term strategy. It’s easy to look up at 28 or 35 and realize you’ve built a life based on pressure — not purpose. The problem isn’t ambition; it’s direction. We’re told to run fast, but no one teaches us how to aim.

I’m Not Just Building a Life — I’m Building a Legacy

Once I saw life as a 100-year journey — not a 10-year sprint — I stopped trying to “arrive” early. Instead, I started designing a life I’d still love at 60.

Now, whenever I take on a new opportunity, I ask myself: Does this serve the woman I want to be at 40? At 80? Or is it just appealing right now? Trends come and go. I’m not just working — I’m becoming.

This approach echoes the Age Brilliantly mindset, which encourages you to think about the six life essentials — purpose, health, finances, relationships, and more. It’s not just about making money or hitting goals. It’s about designing a life you don’t want to escape from — one where every stage feels aligned.

For example, while majoring in communications, I also run my own business. My degree is a tool, but my business is a blueprint — for freedom, wealth, and impact. When I make vision boards, I intentionally include ideas for the different eras of my life.

Your Future Self Deserves Better — Start Now

If you really want to boss up and change the trajectory of your life, ask yourself: If my life lasts 100 years, what am I doing today that my future self will thank me for?

You don’t need to have it all figured out right now. Planning for the future starts with one decision, one question, one habit. Try these steps:

• Journal to your future self (30, 60, 100 years old).
• Create a 10-year vision board that envisions yourself at every age of life.
• Write your future Forbes bio. Frame yourself as the main character of a legacy-building story.
• Reflect on how your current work, habits, or goals shape your long-term life.
• Talk to mentors or older role models about how they built their paths.
• Join a community like Age Brilliantly to learn from others living with intention.

You are not too young to plan your life. You’re right on time to design it with clarity, confidence, and boss energy.