Dear Future 18 Year Old Self,

Let’s start with the fact that you’re not going to wake up with magical adult powers. Age is literally just a number and though this number comes with new responsibilities it doesn’t mean everything needs to be figured out. Turning 18 doesn’t change your amount of love for puppies, warm chocolate chip cookies or the fact you still need your mom’s help every now and then, but here are a few things you probably should know.

Turning 18 means you have more responsibility for yourself. Thus, take care of yourself! Don’t venture into scary areas or do scary things if you don’t think they are a good idea. Always think twice maybe even three times before doing something because you are in charge of yourself now. You don’t need your mom’s permission signature.

Second, with the responsibility for yourself comes the responsibility to vote. I know, turning 18 people are probably nagging your ear off to vote but It’s a good thing to do. It allows your opinion to be heard and allows for projects you want to happen. Voting is what helps our nation grow and progress. It doesn’t matter if you’re republican or democrat, just please vote! It is one of the many perks you get with becoming 18.

Third, dealing with boys. Boy don’t get easier to talk to when you turn 18, they might even be harder to talk to, it is important though to always be safe when talking to boys. I’m not trying to say all boys are scary but just protect yourself. Once I turned 18 I wasn’t aware of all the creepy guys that would start talking to me just because I was 18. Just always watch yourself, stay with friends and be smart. Maybe also invest in some pepper spray.

Lastly, tattoos. In my senior year of high school, it seemed like once everyone turned 18 they were getting a tattoo. Some were good and some were bad but the overall message is don’t feel like because you’re 18 you have to get a tattoo or some crazy piercing. If you really want and have thought a lot about this tattoo or piercing, then go for it! But don’t feel like because you are of age to get one that you need to get one because you never know if one day you’ll regret that quote or that happy face.

Turning 18 is literally just a number. It doesn’t come with too many fancy perks but it does mean you’re an adult. And though the phrase “be an adult” is kind of ambiguous in its meaning of what an adult should be, my best guess is to be responsible. Take care of your body, take care of your brain and just overall take care of yourself and make smart decisions. Don’t feel like you have to have everything figured out because 99 percent of people probably don’t. Just be happy with who you are and the person you’re becoming. Take risks, be bold and don’t sweat the small stuff. And don’t forget to have fun!