Congratulations, you have graduated high school, finished college, or have moved away from home. You did it! You're on your own! Finally an "adult!" Let me be the first to congratulate you, but also to say, good luck.

You see, adulthood seems amazing from an outsider's perspective. Growing up you always think about how nice it must be to make decisions for yourself; Like doing what you want, when you want to do it, and how you want it. Yeah, for the most part, adulthood is deciding many, many things. They just may not be as fun or stress free as you may think.

Depending on your journey in adulthood, and where you're starting from, there are many decisions to be made. One scenario could be choosing which college to attend. Then deciding how to pay for it, which could mean student loans. This then leads to worrying about how to pay for those loans. Then it leads to thinking about future employment as a means of paying off this newly acquired debt.

Another scenario might look like joining the workforce right away. Maybe one day on your way to work, your car breaks down. You take this car to the shop, the car is going to cost more than its worth in repairs, so you are forced to buy another car. Trick is, you don't yet have a credit score and can't get approved for a loan. In order to get a loan, you need a cosigner or you need to get a credit card, rack up some debt, pay the debt, then try again.

Adulting isn't always stressful and horrible though. There are waves and rough-patches, lows and highs, and different seasons. Getting started is a little rough, but from what I have seen, things tend to look up if you play your cards right. (Not telling you to gamble, just an expression!)

So, even though I haven't been adulting very long, here is some advice:

First, know that if getting your education is only possible through student loans, that is totally fine. You should get to go to college, and taking out some loans now is an investment in your future. Just be sure to use the loans for school and not partying. And if it’s at all avoidable, avoid them.

Second, get a credit card, use less than 30% of your limit a month, and pay it off ASAP. Preferably monthly. We live in a weird society that requires some initial debt to get a credit score, and a credit score is important.

For me, the best place to start building my credit was by getting a credit card. Each month, I used my credit card for gas only, payed it off, and started to see my score rise. While having one credit card is almost necessary to build credit, avoid them if you can. Credit cards are a slippery slope and can lead to trouble. Stick to a one card with small usage and stay away from the rest.

Third, embrace your independence, but don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are so many confusing things about adulthood that aren’t taught in school, and sometimes, you might need advice.

Call a parent, an older sibling, or just someone a little older and wiser if you have questions. I know the first time I bought a car, I had NO CLUE what I was doing and needed adivice, so I asked! It’s okay to seek help, and you’re still just as independent, just better advised.

Finally, enjoy being broke and happy for a bit. It sounds crazy, but relish it. I have learned to shop more sales and find more freebies than I ever knew possible. I have also learned that taking a hike, going to the public library, and spending time with friends and family are great fun things that are not only free, but priceless.

There are so many things I could tell you about adulthood, and I definitely don't know it all (not even close!) but remember to enjoy this time in your life. Being young and in charge of yourself is a great feeling, and a great responsibility. And as much as people say adulting sucks, you might be surprised at how enjoyable it can be!