When you were a teenager, you probably couldn’t wait to get to your 20s and start being an adult. We thought that as a teenager, there were too many rules, with our parents still telling us what to do and hindering our every move. And we’ve been led to believe that adulthood is where the fun begins…or is it?
Not quite. It’s not at all filled with fun and games. Adulthood is where we’re truly tested on our independence and responsibility. Our parents, whatever their rules were, were merely training us for a much harder track we’ll be running sooner or later.
The bills waiting to be paid, stress from work, responsibilities. These are things they don’t tell us about being an adult. If you’re just starting on this whole “adult” thing, it can get pretty overwhelming. Here’s what you need to know.
Be aware
Once you step into adulthood, you’ll be needing to know a lot of things. We’re not talking about the kind of things you learn in school. But real-life, practical things.
Especially if you’re living alone somewhere far from home, you need to know you can count on yourself. So make yourself aware of the things around you. Legal requirements in Salt Lake City, for example. Find out what errands you need to run, or what documents you need to register, etc.
You also need to know how to maintain your home. Learn basic repair work like fixing a leaky faucet, repairing a rain gutter, or changing your tires. Or at least know who to call for help. These are the practical things you need to know when you step into adulthood.
Take every opportunity
So you’re off on your own now, and basically, have your whole future in your hands. Find a job and grab every opportunity that comes your way. It’s time for you to explore your skills and find your passion.
Remember that what you do now will shape how you will live 5, 10, even 20 years from now. So make it count. It’s only through experience that you will learn.
Be responsible
Adulthood is all about being responsible. You have to create a sense of balance in your life. It’s as simple as knowing when you need to work and when you can go have fun. You need to discipline yourself and refrain from spending all your hard-earned money by going shopping or going out with friends.
Learn how to manage your time and prioritize your tasks. Sure, it can get overwhelming. But learning how to manage everything at once is something you’ll learn along the way as long as you remain disciplined and responsible.
Learn from your mistakes
Adulthood is no easy feat. Many young adults, especially, struggle with it. There’s no concrete, step-by-step guide on how to “adult.” Everyone’s path is different. Some people get jobs right after graduation; others don’t. Some tend to figure it out quicker than others can.
But there’s no right or wrong in adulthood. It doesn’t mean that others have it all together that they are more successful than you. As far as you’re concerned, do your own thing. Take every opportunity. If it doesn’t work out, learn from your mistakes, and keep going.
A lot of kids these days are so excited to grow up. While those who are at the peak of adulthood wish they were in their childhood years again. There’s no ultimate guide on slaying adulthood, but these steps will give you the right mindset and motivation to get you on the right path.
