Now days, school is all about the math and reading. Which both are very important, but there are real world things that need to be taught in school, that aren't. Of course, I've been out of high school for nine years, so some of the things of this list may be taught now, but to me, they weren't. And I really wish they were. I know life is all about learning things the hard way, but knowing some of these things could have really help me out. Amirite?!
1. How To Write A Check.
This was kind of taught to my class when I was in the fourth grade, but I mean heck, who really remembers fourth grade? When I finally got my own bank account I did know kind of how to write a check, but it was a hot mess. I screwed up all the time on filling them in and balancing my checkbook. I probably paid the bank more than I had actually spent in over draft fees. Now, I know that check are kind of a thing of the past, but it's still out there and important to know.
2. How To Make An Appointment.
I know this is something that seems so silly, but I had my mom making appointments for me till I was 20 years old. So lame. I still hate calling and making appointments, but now I know how to actually make an appointment and find the doctor that fits what I need to go to the doctor for. I feel so grown when I do it. I even make appointments for my son. Look at me go!
3. Gardening.
I think they do actually teach this now in some schools, but when I was serving my school time, it wasn't taught and it should have been. Everyone needs to know how to plant and grow their own food. And not have to look up on the internet/smart phone how to do it.
4. Getting Insurance.
Everyone needs insurance. Health, car, dental, homeowners, renters, etc. And shopping around for the best rates and such is hard and nobody really thinks to tell you about it.
5. Making a deposit.
Nowadays, everything is direct deposit or drafted, so it may seem like a moot point, but knowing how to make a deposit is still something that needs to be taught. There are going to be times that everyone needs to do it and having the teller fill in the slip for you is a little degrading. Don't ya think?!
6. Grocery Shopping.
This seems a little silly too, I know. When I moved out of my moms house, I went on a venture to the grocery store. Having the freedom to buy whatever I wanted, I walked out spending tons of money on junk and having nothing to really eat. Seems weird, but grocery shopping should definitely be a subject in school. How to plans meals and buy accordingly. So you're not starving in two day.
7. Time Management.
This is still something I struggle with. I know sometimes it seems like there's just not enough hours in a day, but if you really took a second to think it through, you can always make time for the important things. Make of list of things that you want to do or accomplish, and get it done. Cross it off one by one. You'll feel a lot better.
8. Credit Cards Are The Devil.
Sure, sometimes credit cards come in handy and can get you or of a bind if you need it, but it's not a way to live and not worth the stress. If it's not something you absolutely have to have to live or a great emergency, don't purchase on a credit card. It's a downward spiral.
9. Student Loans.
Yes, more students than not have to take out student loans to go to college, but you have to pay them back and spend way more than you needed to because of interest rates. If you have to have them, okay, but if at all possible, avoid them. Speak with a counselor or adviser about other options.
10. Take Care Of Yourself.
Every teenager thinks that they can take care of themselves and can probably do enough to get by. But no one ever tells you to take care of your heart, take care of you soul, take care of your mind, take care of your body. There's so much more to taking care of yourself than just keeping yourself alive.
11. Don't Do Drugs.
This should go without saying and it is taught throughout school, but seriously, don't do it. It's bad. It'll make your teeth fall out and it'll follow you forever. Just don't.
