They measured success based on nine criteria, including:

• Education level
• Income
• Home ownership
• Relationship status
• Reported happiness

What stood out was this: adults who continued smoking marijuana after 30 scored lower across these success markers. In contrast, younger users who stopped before their 30s showed no significant setbacks.

But It’s Not That Simple: The Study’s Limitations

Before you start stressing about quitting cold turkey, it’s worth looking at the study’s flaws.

1. The data was limited and outdated
   The sample was drawn entirely from Australian mothers, many of whom were surveyed as far back as 1981. That makes it hard to apply the findings to today’s diverse, global population—including men, non-parents, and people with different lifestyles.
2. “Success” was narrowly defined
   The criteria used—like owning a home or being in a relationship—don’t necessarily reflect modern ideas of success. In today’s world, plenty of happy, thriving people choose not to settle down or own property, especially with remote work and digital nomadism on the rise.
3. Other substances weren’t considered
   The study didn’t factor in whether participants were also using other drugs like ecstasy, opioids, or synthetic substances. That means the negative outcomes observed could be linked to broader polydrug use, not marijuana alone.

So… Should You Quit Smoking Weed After 30?

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