Your early 20s can be a weird time. You’re trying to find a job and take on adult responsibilities, but at the same time, you may not feel totally prepared. It kind of feels like you're still 13 but have way more responsibilities you never asked for. This being said, accomplishing even the smallest, most insignificant things can make you feel like you are really stepping up and becoming an adult.
1. Cleaning the coffee pot at night so it’s ready in the morning.
Honestly, waking up and having to wash a coffee pot is beyond annoying, but you know there's no one to blame but yourself.
2. Getting up before noon, even on your days off of work and class.
It can be aggravating when all you want to do is catch up on some sleep, but there is something so rewarding about getting things done early in the day.
3. Making a grocery list, and sticking to it.
The older I get, the more I see the relevance of a grocery list. I mean I still don’t use them, but I get it.
4. Leaving the grocery store with items that you can actually make a meal with.
There's nothing like going home and realizing all you bought is coffee, ketchup, and tortilla chips. Again, this is why a grocery list is a important.
5. Going to the gym.
It's not so bad, once you get in the groove. Going to the gym can even help with the stress caused by school and work!
6. Getting an oil change.
It becomes abundantly clear how important it is to have a car in your 20s. You have to drive to school, your job, interviews, etc. People aren’t joking when they say your car is like your baby! If you take care of it, it takes care of you.
7. Saying no to going out.
Saying no to going out is rewarding on so many levels. You wake up with no hangover, save money, and you don’t have to suffer from a panic attack because you don’t fully remember what you did or said the night before. It’s amazing!
8. Cooking a meal.
You finally made a meal that’s edible and includes vegetables! That's a big deal!
9. Folding your laundry before putting it away.
It’s awful, but at least you won’t have to wear clothes that look like they were crumpled in a ball for weeks and shoved in the back of your closet, which they most likely were.
10. Making appointments for yourself.
Sure, you may have a low-key panic attack before calling to make an appointment, but it gets easier every time you call. I promise.
11. Cleaning out the garbage disposal.
Why does everything clog the garbage disposal? Why did no one tell you sticking your hand down there and scooping out sludge was part of living on your own?
If you are ever feeling like you're stuck between being a teenager and an adult, don't worry. You are not alone. Just take solace in knowing that even the small things you do are steps along the path to adulthood.
