When you’re young, 20 seems so far off. Being 20 years old sounds so far away that I never really thought about it much. When you’re growing up, you’re always waiting for the next big thing. First, it’s getting your permit, then your driver’s license, having no curfew and getting to legally go out. At the time you think all of these things are so "adult." And then you turn 19, which is almost entirely irrelevant. But then comes the big 2-0.

Turning 20 means that you have been around for two whole decades. Yes, not one, but two! Let’s be real, that’s just crazy. Nothing will make a gal feel old like throwing the word “decade” around. I feel like I was in sixth grade two days ago. How can I possibly be entering my 20th year?

Turning 20 means that you are saying goodbye to a huge chunk of your life. Starting at age 10, the past decade likely houses your best memories of life so far. From going to your first ever Jonas Brothers concert in the fifth grade to your senior prom, it’s been a long time coming. The past 10 years have probably seen you at your happiest, maybe your saddest, and most defiantly at your most awkward phases of life so far.

Turning 20 means you have the perfect opportunity to sit back and think about all the amazing experiences you’ve had in life so far. And it gives you time to think about the experiences you’ve yet to have. It’s a perfect time to pour over that box of photos you have in your closet (or maybe that folder on your iPhone) and think about all the awesome sh*t you’ve done so far.

Turning 20 means you are officially starting a new life. But only if you want to. Going off to college was probably the biggest change in your life so far, but who said turning 20 can’t be as impactful? Now is the perfect chance to start working towards those goals you’ve been keeping in the back of your mind.

But does turning 20 mean you have to get your life together? No, I don’t think so. Whether you are going to continue sleeping till noon and eating Cheetos for dinner or start doing a 7 a.m. Zumba class, you are a normal 20-year-old. There’s no right way to age.

However you choose to do 20, you’re doing it right. Turning 20 is really just the beginning of your life’s newest chapter, and you’re only just getting started. Here’s to your life’s 20th year! I have a feeling it’ll be the best one yet.

And if turning 20 isn’t exciting enough for you, just think about all the legal fun you’ll have next year!