Reframing “Adulting” (Because we deserve better)
I’m starting this with the premise that thoughts are things, and words carry the frequency of intention that bring our thoughts into being. Words can be finely honed tools or dangerous weapons, our choice. Some of our inner dialogue and conversational word choices have been forged into our lexicon over time. But our new paradigm of mindfulness has me questioning everything, I’m wondering, why do we continue to use words that drain us and tear us down?
Self-deprecating humor can be funny on occasion, but repetition eventually builds the emotional reality of the story it tells. That’s the power of language! So reframing words or replacing them with something more intentional can change the way you experience them. Feel the difference between “I have to go to work today” and “I choose to go to work today.” We’re changing the association to include our agency, and it feels empowering.
It occurred to me today that “adulting” is kind of a womp womp word. You know what I mean — it’s what we say when we’re paying bills, scheduling doctor’s appointments, getting our oil changed, or leaving a party early because, well… we value sleep now. Somehow this word became a badge of reluctant responsibility — like, ugh, look at me, doing life stuff.
But here’s the thing: every time we say “adulting,” we’re throwing a tiny dart at our own power. I get it — it’s funny! A little self-deprecating humor makes the grind easier. But words carry energy, and this one feels like it’s quietly dragging us down. Personally, I don’t need another reason to feel meh about being productive. If I leave a party early to take care of myself, that’s not a failure of fun — that’s self-respect with a bedtime.
So let’s redefine it. To me, being an adult — like, really adulting — means listening to my body, honoring my energy, showing up when I say I will, and being grateful for the services my bills actually provide. (Like, thank you, electricity, for existing. You’re the real MVP.)
Sure, we could spiral into a debate about the mess that is the insurance or healthcare system — but at the end of the day, complaining doesn’t pay the copay. So I’d rather approach it with gratitude and a side of humor.
What if instead of “Ugh, I have to adult today,” we said, “I’m stepping into my power today”? Feels different, doesn’t it? Lighter. More intentional. Almost like—dare I say—being an adult is a privilege, not a punishment.
Because really, it is. We’ve made it through childhood, adolescence, and all the emotional bootcamps that got us here. We get to make choices now. We get to support ourselves, nurture our homes, set boundaries, and decide how our lives unfold. That’s not drudgery—that’s sovereignty.
Adulting isn’t a drag; it’s a declaration of how you’re showing up for yourself. You don’t have to go to this particular job—you’re choosing it. And if that choice doesn’t light you up anymore, well, maybe it’s time to make a new one. You have options.
Here’s a journaling prompt:
Think of something you say often that you could phrase in a more empowering way. How does it feel when you reframe it?