Adolescents are a time of exploring and adventures. As a teenager, you grow, learn and make many mistakes. Growing up, you always wish you were older. Anxious to be on your own, you dream of the days when you can buy your own drinks, make your own rules and not be told you are too young for anything. However, those dreaded and rebellious teenage years are often taken for granted. Once older, many responsibilities get in the way of enjoying certain experiences you might put off when you are young. Taking advantage of your teenage years can be a mistake that can haunt you for the rest of your life. After all, how can you be young and wise if you were never young and crazy? That being said, not everything you do in your teens needs to be irresponsible, it's also important to learn who you are and where you want to go in life. Below are 21 things you should do before you turn 21.
1. Travel with friends
Although there may be plenty opportunities for vacations with the family, exploring the world with friends can teach you so much about yourself and others.
2. Find a hobby
It is important to find what you are interested in and create a personal safe heaven for yourself that you can escape to later in life.
3. Go to the party you're thinking of skipping
Within reason, going to an event or part that your thinking of skipping can get you out of your comfort zone and lead you to memories you'll have for a lifetime.
4. Learn to walk away
Whether it's an argument or a toxic person, learning when to quit is vital to your personal sanity.
5. Visit another state for a while
Whether it is a study abroad program, and extended vacation or visiting a relative for the summer, introducing yourself to other cultures and people early on in life can open you up to a whole world of possibilities.
6. Find your style
Stop worrying about trends and what everyone else is doing or wearing and embrace what feels right for you.
7. Learn what's worth it
Just like learning when to quit, it is equally important to know what is worth fighting for and not letting go of something that is important to your future.
8. Get a job (or many)
The more experience you have when your young can teach you many things about life and what you are capable of.
9. Over sleep
You might not want to make a habit of this but not setting the alarm every once in a while can be very good for your mental health. Learn to relax and to not sweat the small stuff.
10. Get kicked out
Proceed with caution. While it might not be wise to do something you can get arrested for, it never hurts to talk to loud in movies or make out in a public place.
11. Learn to apologize
This may seem like something you can put off until adulthood but learning it now can save you a lot of stress later.
12. Take a mental health day
It is important to know your limits and to not over exert yourself all of the time. 10 years from now, no ones going to care that you got perfect attendance junior year or called in sick from work.
13. Eat ice cream for dinner
Learn to enjoy life's little pleasures.
14. Learn to enjoy your own company
Take a walk alone or lay on your bed and reflect on your day. Being able to be alone and take comfort in yourself is vital to the stresses of adulthood.
15. Get out of your comfort zone
Join a club or friend group that you aren't sure about. Being versatile opens you up to know possibilities.
16. Start a personal library
Starting this when your young when help you to see how much you have grown and expanded your mind.
17. Go to a concert
Staying up late on a school night to see Justin Bieber or sitting through the blazing heat at a music festival are memories you will never forget.
18. Stay up a full 24 hours
Staying up late to gossip with friends, craning for a final exam or spending all night at a fundraiser will prepare you to be flexible for late nights and early mornings as an adult.
19. Get food after midnight
You have the rest of your live to follow diets and food schedules. Getting french fries and shakes at 2 a.m. with your besties is something you shouldn't take advantage of.
20. Fall in love
Opening your heart to someone is scary but being vulnerable and allowing yourself to dive into love is well worth it.
21. Have your heart broken
Without heartbreak when wouldn't be able to appreciate the good times. Living this lesson in your teens can teach you a lot about yourself and how you handle life's disappointments.
