As one of biggest birthday of your life approaches, you may be thinking about how big you’ll go out with your friends or how people will finally see and treat you as an adult. But being 21 isn’t just drinking and getting into 21 and over hot spots. You’re entering a new realm of your life, where you’ll find yourself "adulting" more than you want to and missing how simple your life was before turning 21. Here are a few things you should know before you think about attempt 21 shots on your 21st. (do not attempt this).
1. Don’t feel like you should have everything figured out.
At this age, most of you are fresh out of college and looking to make your next move. Remember that it is not uncommon to still be figuring out who you are as a person and what you’re most passionate about.
2. It’s OK to still need your parents.
Your parents have been your support system for more than 20 years and turning 21 doesn’t have to change that. It’s completely OK to fall back on them from time to time.
3. Your academic career isn’t completely over.
Don’t rule out the option of going to grad or law school just yet. Just because it doesn’t appeal to you now, doesn’t mean you won’t go later on.
4. Always always carry your ID.
Just because you’re of age doesn’t mean you won’t get carded as much. You can expect to get carded more often than you think.
5. Remember…liquor before beer, you’re in the clear.
Always.
6. Take risks.
Your twenties are your selfish years; take advantage of any opportunities that come your way. Go on that road trip, take that job across the country, try a new sport, whatever it may be…it could lead to something unexpected.
7. Date casually.
If you’re not already in a relationship, date causally and freely. You’ll enjoy getting to know new people and take part in new experiences with them.
8. Document your memories.
While you’re off traveling the world or celebrating birthdays and holidays, take as many pictures as you can. You’ll appreciate this when you’re older and have something to show the kids.
9. Take care of yourself.
However your treat your body now will reflect on how your body will look and operate later. Do yourself a favor and exercise regularly, have a balanced diet and get your 8 hours of sleep in while it still matters.
10. Take care of yourself…part 2.
Just because your mom stopped booking your dentist or doctors appointments doesn’t give you a pass to stop going. Book those appointments; it’s not as scary as you think…I promise.
11. Stay in touch with your family.
You’re likely busy with work or school but that’s not an excuse to not call or visit your family.
12. Work hard and save money.
You’ll have expenses coming at you from all angles. Work as much as you can to bring in money and while you’re at it save some for a rainy day. You’ll thank yourself later.
13. It's okay to treat yourself…occasionally.
Buy those shoes you’ve been eyeing or go to that restaurant you’ve been dying to try… its completely okay to treat yourself every once and a while…after you’ve paid your rent and stocked the fridge of course.
14. You’re going to make mistakes.
You’re young and still maturing; you’re bound to fall into a crisis or two along the way. Know that it this is normal and not the end of the world. Learn from your mistakes and move forward.
15. You’ll feel old.
There are times you are going to feel older than you are. Instead of staying out till 3 a.m., you’ll want to stay in. You’ll be tired all the time and the only remedy will be sleep and Netflix.
16. Take advice from others.
Don’t rely on yourself to know how to do everything. This is all still fairly new to you and you’ll want to take all the advice you can get.
17. Learn to laugh at yourself.
You’re going to embarrass yourself more times that you’d like and instead of dwelling on it, laugh at it. You’re embarrassing. Who cares? So is everyone else.
18. It's OK to lose touch with high school or college friends.
You’ll meet new people and be into new things. It’s only natural to drift from old friends.
19. Take a break from your phone.
Look up every once and a while, you might be missing out on something worthwhile.
20. Acknowledge your adult responsibilities.
Don’t expect your parents to handle everything for you anymore. At this point in your life, you’ll be expected to step up and handle your own responsibilities.
21. Enjoy your youth.
You only turn 21 once, enjoy the crazy twist and turns life has to offer!
