In the “31-36 years” Blob, adults typically learn to embrace and navigate their responsibilities. Personality traits mature, and individuals develop into confident, independent members of society.

Social and Family Dynamics

Psychologist Levinson refers to this period as Settling Down, where people work to create a more permanent place for themselves in their personal and professional lives, although what that means has evolved. Marriage is no longer seen as essential for defining a family unit, with alternatives like “weekend relationships,” “living apart together,” civil partnerships, or maintaining separate residences becoming more common. Fewer adults are choosing to marry; according to data from the EU-28 states, the number of marriages has decreased by almost 50% since 1965, while divorces are on the rise. There’s also been an increase in the number of children born to unmarried couples, with 40% of births in the EU-28 in 2012 occurring outside of marriage.

However, even as marriage becomes less prevalent, it remains the preferred option for most. Nearly 70% of all families in the EU-28 were still composed of married couples, compared to registered partnerships, consensual unions, and lone-parent families.

Establishing Roots and Work-Life Balance

Another key aspect of “settling down” involves purchasing property. In the United States, this is often a time for career advancement. A person might focus on earning a promotion, buying a home, or starting a business to solidify their professional and financial foundation. Those who take this step, especially parents, may decide to move from the bustling city to more family-friendly suburbs. During this Blob, much energy is dedicated to establishing a place in society and forming formal relationships with colleagues, teachers, and neighbours. The dynamic with parents may shift as one’s own family takes priority, leading to less time spent with them.

Work, raising children, and managing budgets become the rhythm of life. Many face the challenge of balancing career growth with childcare, and one partner (often the mother) may temporarily step back from work to focus on parenting.

Choosing a Different Path

On the other hand, some people—either by choice or circumstance—remain single, dedicating their time to work, education, or personal growth. They might not be ready to commit to long-term relationships or may still be searching for the right partner. For these individuals, friendships take on an essential role.

Research shows that cash-rich, time-poor professionals are increasingly turning to online dating as a way to connect. And there’s good reason for that. According to psychologists from the University of Chicago, marriages that begin through online dating are 25% more likely to succeed than those that start in the “real world.”

Mental and Physical Changes

Mentally, this stage may mark the beginning of a gradual decline in reasoning, spatial skills, and speed of thought. At the same time, there’s often a strong drive to be recognized at work and to learn new skills, which can sometimes lead to stress and overwork. While the brain does lose a small amount of volume due to neuron shrinkage, this usually happens without noticeable cognitive slowdown.

Physically, most people are still fit and strong, but the primary aging process begins to show. Some loss of strength and speed may occur, and body shape can change. Weight gain can become an issue, especially for women who have given birth and find it challenging to lose postpartum weight. Muscle mass and strength also tend to decrease after 30. Hair may start thinning and greying, and the lens of the eye begins to stiffen and thicken, leading to changes in vision. Sensitivity to sound may also decline, and issues like migraines, back pain, and allergies may develop.

How did you navigate the challenges of this stage? Share your story in the comments below. Or download your Life Stages in Blobs Worksheet now and start your journey!

Click here for Blob 7: Established Adult

or read about any other Blob:
Spring: 1-6, 7-12, 13-18, 19-24
Summer: 25-30, 31-36, 37-42, 43-48
Autumn: 49-54, 55-60, 61-66, 67-72
Winter: 73-78, 79-84, 85-91, 91-…