It has been a really long week for me and I've learned a lot of things that I wish I had considered before moving away from home to college. That being said, I would like to give you my top five tips for accomplishing a smooth transition into adult hood.
1. Being an Adult Doesn’t Mean You’re a Superhero
It’s okay to ask for help when you need it. When we were kids we always wanted to do things on our own like, tie our shoes, open our juice boxes and brush our teeth. God forbid anyone tried to help us, we would throw a fit.
However, admitting when you’re wrong and need help becomes a staple of growing up. In the early years of adulthood you will try to do things on your own and fail, miserably. It’s okay to swallow your pride from time to time and let other people who know better teach you. I promise, later you will be happy to pay it forward.
2. Cut Toxicity Out of Your Life
This includes people, foods etc. Honestly, let go of anything that is a prime source of unhappiness. Even if you think that you can’t go without something in the beginning it’ll get easier, no matter how important you think it is. I know this is easier said than done, you may have a friend whom you’ve known forever but they aren’t good for you mentally anymore and it is okay to let them go.
The most important thing to you should be yourself and everything else comes second. Trust me on this one; once you’re free of all your toxic ties you’ll have more life and energy than ever. This will really open you up for new experiences.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes, You Never Know Where You’ll End Up
You can never really grow unless you learn things on your own. One of the biggest mistakes I’m afraid to make is taking the wrong subway and ending up somewhere unfamiliar. I know this doesn’t seem like a big deal but for someone who rarely ever leaves her apartment, trust me, it’s a huge deal.
I have missed out on so many experiences with my friends because I was too afraid to make a mistake. Your parents can tell you a million times why something is a bad idea, but let’s be honest, nothing drives a point home like a good old fashioned “I told you so.”
4. Take Some Time for Yourself
Things can feel overwhelming sometimes. I'm not saying that you can’t handle it, but it’s important to take a step back sometimes and breathe. Take a nap, a bubble bath or binge watch all five seasons of Bobs Burgers on Netflix. Set aside at least one day a week that’s dedicated to doing things that relax you or make you happy. Have some alone time; it’s important to realize that you are a priority.
5. Keep Consistent Communication with the People You Love
I cannot tell you how often I’m on the brink of insanity but one call from my mom or a quick text from my best friend can bring me back to reality. You have to keep your important relationships, well, important. Especially if you’re far from home, the people who love you most don’t always know what’s going on in your life.
Make sure you keep everyone updated. It makes it easier for you to connect with others knowing that your communication skills are still sharp. You’ll want to dive headfirst into adulthood knowing that you’ve got a full support system behind you.
