When we turned 18, we thought we were hitting the most influential age. We were officially adults! We could do what we wanted (within reason) and start to find our way in the world as independent people. Little did we know that we had only just started. Eighteen merely marked the beginning of the journey. Now that I'm about to turn 20, I feel like my childhood is officially ending. Although being 20 opens up a whole new exciting chapter of our lives, there are things that ultimately worry everyone who are leaving the teen stage.
1. What am I actually doing with my life?
By now, most of you probably have a major in college and are studying in order to further your career in whatever field you choose. However, what do you actually want to do in the future? Personally, I don't want to spend my life behind a desk. Do I worry about making a living? Of course, I would be crazy not to. But I want to live life to the fullest, having crazy adventures, laughing, and traveling. So my future is yet to be determined. But that's ok, nothing needs to be set in stone.
2. I don't want to act like an adult.
Because you are now 20 is no reason to let go of your childhood. There is a complete difference between being a "professional" person and being a "mundane" person. Will you have to be professional in some situations? Of course, but keeping a sense of your youth with you at all times will keep you happier in the long-run.
3. Ew, I'm getting old.
Turning 20, for me at least, marks the beginning of getting old. Before you know it you are turning 30 than 40. Maybe in a few years you'll be married with children. It's a weird thought. In a way, time starts flying and speeding up at this age. Big changes in our lives are going to start happening all at once and alter our lives. Let's just pause time at 19, shall we?
4. Can I still order off the kid's menu?
Sometimes all you want is a good grilled cheese or chicken nuggets with french fries. You can keep your steak and lobster, I'm going with the classics. Not to mention, the kid's menu is three times cheaper than even an appetizer off the regular menu.
5. My parents are going to be all over me about actually being productive.
At this time in your life, your parents will start to get more and more worried about the state of your life. They may drop little hints, like "I heard about a great job that sounds perfect for you" or "It's really time to look at internships, don't you think?" This only adds more stress to the prospect of growing up and taking charge of your life.
Turning 20 is a big step that involves becoming who you want to be for the rest of your life. This can be intimidating, but it's also exciting. If you stick to your morals and stay true to who you are, who knows what great things you'll do. Are there obstacles to come? Plenty. But we are adults now. We can handle anything.
