Once your eighteenth birthday rolls around, the transition from childhood is swift. Suddenly, you’re worrying about money, looking for a job, and having existential crises twice a week. And it only gets worse with graduation. As a recent college grad myself, I’m starting what I’ve been calling a “quarter-life crisis,” meaning I’m trying and failing to cope with adulthood. Even though adulthood is a never ending ride on the struggle bus, there are a few things I’ve found that help make the journey a little bit easier.
1. Coffee. Lots of coffee.
I don’t know what it is about coffee, but drinking a cup (or three) in the morning makes me feel like the rest of the day is possible. It could be caffeine, or just the act of waking up and going through the motions. And when it's good coffee, I feel like I can conquer the world (at least for a few hours).
2. Journaling
Maybe it’s the writer in me, but even when I was younger writing things down helped me destress and calm down. Whether it's diary entries, bullet journaling, or just keeping up with a to-do list, keeping a journal can help you get organized and make it feel like you've got a bit more of your life together.
3. Disney movies
Disney movies are both nostalgic and uplifting. They're a great reminder that no matter how old we get, we'll always have that inner child screaming for more Toy Story and princesses. Even if you think you're too old for kid's movies, you have to admit that watching something like Monsters, Inc. makes you smile, at least a little bit.
4. Re-reading old favorites
Do you remember the books that made you actually enjoy reading? The ones that took you somewhere completely new and immersed you in story? Try rereading some of those books and see if they don’t still do the same for you now. Reading is a great way to escape reality for a little while and a way to pass some time. So when you’re adulting (i.e. going to the doctor or waiting to be seen at the bank), bring a book along.
5. Finding a new hobby
For some reason, I’ve always wanted to knit. I’ve always wanted to play guitar and be good at Spanish. There are so many things on my “I’ve always wanted to...” list and my adulthood is the perfect time to do them all. A hobby can help you relax, meet new people, or just give you something to do other than the usual working, eating, and sleeping. It's nice to fill your time with things you really enjoy and have always wanted to do.
