In less than a month, I will be turning 21. It's a rite of passage, going from the teenaged world to the adult world, even though I've technically been an adult since I have been 18. However, many people want to achieve many things before they reach this golden age. Here are some things that I have done (or wish I have done) before turning 21.
1. Go see your favorite artist in person.
No matter the lengths (and prices) you have to go through. You know you won't regret it.
2. Get lost
Drive down a few roads without using your GPS, then try and find a way back. You might discover new things.
3. Go to a famous restaurant.
Whether it's a world-class restaurant or your local joint featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," you know you're in for a treat.
4. Leave the country.
Take time to explore different countries. Just make sure to come back home eventually.
5. Volunteer at an animal shelter.
The shelter and the animals will thank you. And who knows? Maybe you'll help an animal find their forever home.
6. See a Broadway show.
There is nobody in the world who doesn't enjoy a Broadway show, and that is a fact.
7. Explore your city.
Similar to getting lost, but maybe use a GPS this time.
8. Go camping.
Whether it's at a resort or in your backyard, time spent outside is never wasted.
9. Participate in some retail therapy.
10. Fall in love.
With a guy, with a girl, with a fluffy friend -- love who you want to love.
11. Take a day trip in a new city.
Plan it out so you can spend as much time in this city as you possibly can.
12. Go to a beach.
Whether you go to the beaches of Florida or the beach at the local quarry, sometimes you need to soak up the sun.
13. Work at a job you love.
This can be a career job or a part time job, but definitely try to enjoy your time at the place you work.
14. Make new friends.
Find them through work, hobbies, traveling. There are so many people in the world out there, how can you not meet someone new?
15. Go see a national landmark.
Be in awe of your country, in a good way.
16. Pick up a new hobby.
Always wanted to try something, but were too nervous to? What's stopping you now?
17. Go out.
Even if you're not a fan of clubs, you can go out once just to say that you have been.
18. Have a TV marathon.
Yes, it is totally acceptable to watch every single "Lord of the Rings" movie back to back. Or your favorite TV show.
19. Get your nails done.
Guys can do this too! Nothing beats feeling pampered.
20. Discover new music.
iTunes usually features one free song a week of newer music (that's how I discovered Zedd with "Clarity"). Maybe you'll find your new favorite artist this way.
21. Love yourself.
Probably the most important one of all. In all your imperfections, you are perfect just the way you are.
Twenty-one may be the age that is just seen as the legal drinking age, but it is the start of a long transition to adulthood. While you're still young, definitely try to do any of these things from this list, and start making memories you'll remember for a lifetime.
