The common phrase many college students use that has been irritating me lately is called "adulting." Even though this phrase has been out for what, a few year now, I still roll my eyes at some people who say they "can't adult." Well, first of all, instead of being afraid of wanting to become an adult, embrace that you are able to make it towards that step in life where you have a college education, have had help from family and friends. You got to enjoy life beyond high school by going to college. Now its time to learn how "adulting" is something not to fear. Thanks to my mom and her accounting skills, and me, for planning out items ahead, here are a few tips for handling the "adulting" challenge:
1. Don't fear being an adult, embrace it!
I believe that when you face life head on, you become more confident in your abilities to start planning for your life outside your college apartment or residence hall. When you keep saying " adulting," you are making the process of life sound somewhat negative. Stop. Just stop. Honestly, there have been people who couldn't afford to take out loans or have scholarships, or have their parents help them pay for college. Those people had to find a full time job right out of high school and support themselves. Heck, there are students who go to college full time AND work a full time job. Props to you guys!
2. Plan ahead.
When thinking about life after college, again, the freakout begins while you are doing a mountain of homework and trying to figure out bills, etc. The best thing to do when it comes "adulting" you could start setting up a game plan like, maybe finding price ranges for apartments, figure out how you will pay your bills and separate your checks, just regular decision making. It also doesn't hurt to get your resume updated and start networking with potential employers at local job fairs and internet job postings.
3. Save money.
It is never a bad idea to start saving money! Take $20 from a paycheck and put it away, and use it to save for cheap living! Save, save, save. Gotta love the green! It takes green to get you started in life. Not everyone is going to give you a freebie through life, and sometimes we get swept up in the college life of living off loans and not always worrying about loans. I am honestly not trying to come off as a nagging harpy, but I learned that when you save money, you get great rewards and life will be that much easier when you are kicked out into the world.
4. Never be afraid to ask for advice.
At times, you might be overwhelmed with everything: school, bills, tearing your hair out and calling your mom with a waterfall coming out of your eyes. When you feel like this, probably a good idea to calm down, watch some nickelodeon cartoons, and call your parents, siblings, friends, or anyone you trust. You may have to grow up and be an adult, but asking for help is never wrong. If you knew everything, you wouldn't have waterfalls coming out of your eyes.
5. Learn balance.
Even though you are planning for your future, successful life, you need to also breathe after the initial freak out, keep in mind that everything will come in time. Plan what you want to accomplish for the day. Save money, look into prices, or perhaps but items for your apartment. You are well on your way!
