I just turned 25 and most of my friends are either working or doing a degree that promises placements. Meanwhile I'm still grinding for government exams.
Today my friend rang after about six months. We used to be besties back in school, chatted daily about everything – crushes, family drama, you name it. She moved away for college, so we lost touch.
During the call she said, "I'm proud you haven't given up, you're still trying," and it felt like a back‑handed compliment. This is my third attempt at banking exams; I cleared a few mains but couldn't convert them. I got some MBA college offers, but they weren't worth the money. My mental state is pretty rough – being 25 and unemployed never crossed my mind.
The competition has made me feel lonely and insecure, even with a friend who knows me so well.
I'm spiralling into self‑doubt. Is it normal to take this long to clear exams? I started preparing in Jan 2024 (UR).
People, is this a normal timeline or am I running late? After that call I just can't focus on studies; it's been two hours and that comment keeps echoing.
I was 27 last year and went through the same self‑doubt, fear and confusion. I kept asking myself 'if not this, then what?' and pushed through the pressure from family. I even cut off friends and stopped scrolling social media, just focused on studying. Now at 28 I've cleared four bank exams – SBI clerk, IBPS clerk, RRB PO and RRB clerk. Things are back to normal with family and friends.
Good head, you get it. Don't step back – you'll get what you want.
Everyone has their own timing, so chill – we're all in the same boat.
Hey, I'm 23 and I get you. In India everything feels saturated – private jobs are scarce and government exams are tough too. Don't take your friend's comment personally. Believe in yourself and stay confident. You've already cleared the mains, which shows your preparation is solid. Keep going, don't doubt yourself. Once you clear the exam, you're set for life.
You just need to succeed once and the next 30 years will be sorted. So relax, don't stress, enjoy the preparation and the challenges. Honestly, God looks after the future. Best wishes!
Don't give up.
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All I can say is: finish what you've started.
I was 27 and it took me six months to land a job.
You can keep going.
Don't panic.
It's all worth it the day you crack the exam. I cleared mine at 28 (still prepping for RBI), and my cousin did at 31.
Until then it's painful, depressing and mostly lonely.
So stay shamelessly optimistic and keep working hard until you succeed.