- Thou shalt do something with thy time.
Post grad life can bring many things like grad school, a new job, some time off. Whatever you may choose to do with your time, just make sure you're doing something. If you're not working or going to school; travel, look for work, just do something to be productive. If you're not doing something, you'll get bored, and everyone should have a purpose to wake up each day.
- Thou shalt avoid drinking during the day. (Except at brunch or football Saturdays).
College has many opportunities to drink during the day, but post grad doesn't lend itself well to drinking before 5. The bright side is that happy hour can become you're new best friend. Find a coworker, find the best deal around, and drink to your heart's content. This rule does not apply to a boozy brunch, though.
- Thou shalt get involved.
Join a sand volleyball team, a local alumni group, volunteer. There are so may options as to how to get involved, but become a part of something bigger than yourself. You did it in college, continue to do it post grad!
- Thou shalt visit thy alma mater often.
Depending on where you live, get back to your alma mater. Visit the friends that are still there, and bring your friends you graduated with. Just make sure that you get home as often as you can, because trust me, it will still be amazing as it was during undergrad.
- Thou shalt decorate your new living arrangements like an adult.
Say goodbye to you paddles on the wall and your Pinterest canvases. Yes, these things are adorable in your college bedroom, but it's time to dress it up. Get some inspiration from Pottery Barn and then find something similar at a more reasonable price range. A wise woman (my mom) recently told me that you should have at least one black piece in each room. I don't know if this is true, but mom knows best, so I'll take her word for it.
- Thou shalt be prepared for many weddings.
The next few years for most of us will be filled with Facebook engagement announcements, countless Instagrams of diamond rings, and frilly wedding invitations. Invest in a great little black dress for those winter weddings, and find a great summer dress for those “wedding season" I do's.
- Thou shalt call thy parents.
Remember to call your mom and dad every week. Even though you've really stepped into the real world, you should remember that they want to hear what's going on in your life, and you should be interested in what your parents are doing as well. So give them a call!
- Thou shalt save thy money.
It pained me to write this one because my parents breathe this commandment down my throat every day. But it's true, start saving now and pay off your student loans. Just do it.
- Thou shalt not only text thy friends.
I know we grew up in a generation where texting rules all, but as we all move away from our friends and family, it's time to start calling. Having a real conversation with your friends will help you stay more connected. You don't need to call them everyday, but just once in a while, instead of sending that text, pick up the phone and tell them that funny story from last night.
- Thou shalt have the time of your life.
While college may be over, your life isn't. You're still in your early twenties, so enjoy the time! Go out with your friends, do everything and anything. Enjoy this time because before you know it, you'll be 30 and that's when it all goes to sh**. (J.K. I heard your thirties are pretty great, too).
