In 21 days I'll be 21, and life is starting to sneak up on me. I've had to take on more responsibilities, keep up appearances, and make good grades. Life, right now, is beautiful and complicated, and there are so many things I wish someone had told me about living it.
1. Adult Life Is Like A Rapidly Expanding Bubble
Have you ever seen a kid trying to blow big bubbles with the tiny plastic wand? They will try and try for what seems like ages, and then it'll happen suddenly, that soapy goodness will begin to grow. When you're in high school and maybe even college and you're trying to figure out who you are, what you want to do, and how you want to live your life, you are that kid. But then you figure it out and your life begins to expand and take shape, quicker than you can comprehend.
2. The Real World Isn't As Scary As You think
In college you are protected and immersed in the culture of your school. Life on the outside can seem terrifying, but it is just a series of steps. We've all heard stories from cynical sorority sisters or less-than-fraternal fraternity brothers about being poor and stressed from working that entry-level or retail job. That job leads to another, better, job or possibly a career. Jobs and a career can be found in the strangest of places, you just have to look for it.
3. Money Isn't The Only Thing That Matters
Money is great, don't get me wrong. It allows you to do fun things like go to the movies, buy groceries, and pay rent. That cash, however, is only good up to a point. Family can turn to strangers and friends to enemies over money, and it's just not worth it. Don't make the pursuit of your life money, but happiness.
4. Family Is Not Optional
We all have a family. They drive us crazy, make us happy, and are an endless support system. I've found that friends will come and go, but your siblings and parents are required to be there forever. My brother has become my best friend, and I'm so glad I've taken more time appreciating and getting to know him. They can be your shelter in a storm, and for sure they have known you the longest out of all of your friends. So be kind to them and enjoy your family.
5. Don't Move Too Quickly
Life already seems to be speeding faster each year, so take time to appreciate it. I've spent too many hours studying and not appreciating what is going on around me, moving from one test to the next. We'll never have as much free time as we do now, so we should celebrate it and enjoy it. Do go to the tacky parties and mixers, do meet friends for drinks, do go explore and enjoy your town. You won't have this kind of lesuire again.
