Youth is fleeting, and to say so is frightfully cliché. Ask Daenerys Targaryen, who perfected the art of eye-rolling at the slightest hint of an overused line.
If you have read this far, you are probably wondering where I'm going with this. Well, I'll get straight to the point.
Don't be like Jon Snow. Learn something!
1. Knowledge is power!
Go to a college, preferably an accredited 4-year institution. Learn skills and gain knowledge that will equip you for the "real" world. A bachelor's degree might get you in the door, but knowledge and experience will secure future success.
2. Sow your wild oats
That being said, wait until after college to "find" yourself. Wild times don't have to involve Mike Tyson, Vegas, and a stray tiger. Venture out into the world before you decide to settle down. As an adult, you should be equipped to make healthy decisions, i.e. don't drink and drive, always wear a condom, pay your bills and brush your teeth twice a day! if you're not there yet, wait until you're 25 and attempt said feat again.
3. Wait to procreate
"Babies are fun," said few sleep-deprived parents, ever! Seriously, wait a few years after you get married to have kids (in that particular order). Having kids adds a huge responsibility that no one can adequately prepare you for, including your parents. Yeah, toddlers eat toilet paper (see above), they don't care if you're sick or tired, and they will throw your cell phone in the toilet and eat the dog's food. Get the point? There's no script to parenthood, you make it up as you go along.
4. Invest
Buy something that will increase your net worth. Nothing proves that you're a responsible adult more than making sound financial decisions. If you're not ready to buy a house at 24, sign a lease, buy stocks or get a puppy. Establish your independence before you cohabitate with your partner.
5. Travel
Explore the world around you - even it's it's the adjacent city or state. You don't need a fat bank account to explore. Just venture beyond your zip code and maybe the travel bug will bite. Nothing says "I got out of my comfort zone" like a backpacking trip in Europe.
6. Set realistic goals
By that, I mean beyond what you are going to eat for dinner. Set a goal for the next two to five years. It can by anything, as long as your serious about it and it's feasible.
7. Get involved
Get involved in a worthy cause. Volunteer. Do something you feel passionate about. You may not derive any income from it, but the payoff may be much greater than you imagined.
8. Take Initiative
Don't wait for someone to reach out to you. Take the first step! Be a go-getter and pursue your goals and dreams. Be willing to step outside of your comfort zone. If big crowds aren't your cup of tea, start with a smaller group in a more intimate setting and work your way up from there.
Happy trails!
