The post-graduate essentials for feeling as good as your Instagram feed looks.
Gym Membership
When your friends are no longer your neighbors, and your kitchen is the new dining hall (open 24 hours), the gym membership comes to the rescue. Just be prepared for the fact that not everyone in this gym will be in their early twenties.
Room Reno
Unless you've been living under a massive rock, you've probably consumed some of the HGTV Kool-aid. Refresh your room by ditching prom photos and old Bath and Body Works sprays. Whether you're living at home or on your own, having some new decor will make the transition easier. That photo of you at the Twilight movie premiere is photo album gold, but it might not be the best thing to look at while getting ready for work (or an interview).
Crack a Book
With the exception of those continuing their education, you're not going to be forced to read. And while Buzzed articles are fun, and sometimes relevant, reading actual books will keep your vocabulary in check. You know that feeling of doing your first assignment after summer break...imagine that, but multiplied by years.
Enjoy the Bars in Your Area
Not being able to attend weekly college parties and pre-games in your friends rooms can be devastating. That kind of fun only happens for those four years. Invite your people out to the bars. And maybe to your place for pre-game before if you're feeling extra adult-crazy.
Take Social Media Cleanses
It's a natural post-grad reaction to compare your life to other people your age. Everyone's life is different and we all experience highs and lows throughout the year. Just because Stacey is at a club in Los Angeles and Chad (or Brad) is hiking the Appalachian Trail while also drinking craft beer, doesn't mean your life will be less exciting. This time next year, you might be traveling the world or getting a promotion. Don't be too hard on yourself.
Volunteer/Service Work
Just because the two-year commitment to the Peace Corps didn't work out, doesn't mean you can't give back to the community. Good ideas for volunteering are animal shelters, non-profits, arts organizations, homeless shelters, or any kind of group that supports something you care about. This will give you a sense of purpose and remind you of whats really important (other than binge-watching television shows).
Whatever You Want
Being in your early twenties might seem like an eternal confusion of what's next? But this is also the only time in your life where you're young enough to make crazy choices and old enough to act on them. So, just do what you want to.
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