One of my current favorite songs right now is "Sixteen" by Thomas Rhett. For those of you who aren't country music fans, or perhaps haven't heard Thomas' newest album, the song is about wanting to be certain ages and looking forward to what each age brings. When Thomas sings about being 21, he says "What I wouldn't give to be twenty one, wild and free. Open up a cold one and drink it legally. Chase a bunch of girls, go see the world, let my wild streak run. I'll be right where I wanna be when I'm twenty one."

1. It's Okay To Not Know "What's Next"

When you're 21, it seems like suddenly the pressures of "What job will you have after you graduate?" and "When are you going to settle down and get married?" start to weigh heavy. Instead of family members asking how you are, they ask how you will be- and that can be a lot of pressure! Your twenties should be a time to figure out your passions and interests and to gain experience. So when you start to feel pressured to have the big questions all ironed out- don't! Just continue to pursue what you love and keep growing.

2. Think Before You Post

This was a big one for me. I by no means was ever the huge party girl, but I was pretty excited to experience the bars or purchasing a margarita with my tacos. I quickly noticed I was posting every little drink I was having, and I had to think twice about that. You want your social media presence to be tasteful so people don’t get the wrong idea. I’m not saying you can’t post a beer, but I will say I had to make sure that wasn’t the only thing I was posting. Enjoy your wine, just remember not everyone needs to see every glass on Instagram.

3. Being Single at 21 is Perfectly OK

It seems like every time I get onto FaceBook, someone from High School is engaged. At 21 it may seem like if you haven’t settled down, there’s something wrong with you. But that isn’t the case! Being single at this age is really a cool thing because you are able to go to many new places you couldn’t before you were 21. Go out, make friends and meet new people! Don’t feel the pressure to settle down and get married at 21 because that isn’t for everyone.

4. Try Something New!

Try out a new hobby! Like I said, being 21 is really a freeing and fun time. There are some stresses that come along with being 21, so finding something you like to do like taking a cycling class or going to a paint workshop is not a bad idea!

5. Spend Time With Your Loved Ones

The older you get, so does all of your family. Everyone starts to grow up and start their own families or get into their careers so this age is an important time to create time for your family and friends. It can be difficult as you grow older and everyone’s schedules seem to differ so making that time to see or even call for good conversation will be something you really cherish later in life.

6. Invest in a Wedding Outfit- You'll Need!

This one hit me like a ton of bricks. I attended two weddings about 3 months apart from each other and didn’t quite know what to wear. Over the course of the rest of my 21st year, I attended NINE weddings! I eventually bought one versatile, yet “wedding appropriae” dress and some cute black heels on sale and it made a world of difference! Plus, it saved me a lot of $ in the fact that I wasn’t buying a new outfit for every single wedding. 21 is the age where people start to get married and it will only increase so hit the sale rack and find a good pair of slacks or an LBD!

7. Also, Invest in Work Professional Clothing

Getting professional clothing is a big one at this age too. 21 is typically the year you begin internships, conferences for clubs, and for some work! If you are not in school, you may be getting into your full time-career at 21. I found myself struggling to find work-appropriate clothing in my closet as I tend to live in sweaters and jeans. This one may not apply to every career field, but for the majority it is a helpful tip!

8. Make Your Resume

Creating your resume is super important at this age. I suggest using an internet guide to start. After you’ve updated your resume, send it off to a professor, family member, or older friend to look over and edit for you. It will be huge!

9. Travel

Travel!! I understand that traveling costs money, but with planning and saving, it isn’t impossible at this age. There are many programs available to people this age even if you are not in school. Going to another state or another country will do wonders for you at this age. Immersing yourself in another culture is a gift and such an incredible experience. So do some research and try to take a trip somewhere new and just explore.

10. Finally, You can Drink! But Be Smart When Doing So

Obviously people associate 21 with being able to drink. While yes, I go to bars and I order beer with my dinner, I did learn some things about finally being able to drink. I learned that it will make you gain weight like crazy if you are not careful! Balancing your drinks with a healthy life-style is really important now that you can drink. Also, I had to tell myself “just because I can, doesn’t mean I should.” I had to really make sure each time I ordered a drink it was not just because I legally could. Drinks are expensive and they start to rack up! And finally, NEVER drink and drive. Call a friend or get an Uber. It’s just not worth putting yourself or others in danger. I’ve been blessed to not struggle with this, but I have friends who do so look out for each other. Drinking responsibly can be very fun but be smart and safe about it!

11. Wear the Coat... The Line Outside Will Probably Be Long and You'll Be cold.

A lot of times, I froze because I didn’t want to wear my coat when going out. Each time I did not wear it, I regretted it big time. Just wear the coat.

12. Enjoy Staying Out All Night!

Closing down the bar will most likely not be a norm for you at 40. If you don’t have a major test the next day or work, allow yourself to go all night every one in awhile. Now is the time!

13. Pay Attention to Current Events

The older we become, the more important it is to have an idea of what is happening in the world around us. We are at an age where current events shape who we are and may even impact our careers or personal lives, so it is important to know what is going on in the world.

14. And For That Matter, Elections

The above applies to elections too! Politics are not for everyone, but we are blessed to live in a country where we have the right to vote. Now that you are legally able to, at least figure out what issues are important to you and look into the candidates to know who you will vote for. Make sure your voting address is up to date so you know where to go when the election comes around- you can do this at the BMV!

15. Find a Good Regimen For Stress Relief

Twenty One can be twenty-fun, but it can also make you want to twenty-run. All bad jokes aside, it can be a really stressful time in your life. Finding a good stress-relief that works for you is huge. Whether it be working out, listening to music, grabbing coffee with a friend, reading a book or doing a devotion, having that go-to stress relief regimen will really come in handy.

16. Learn To Cook

Often times at 21 (due to budget and let’s be honest, laziness) we resort to Taco Bell and Ramen Noodles. There are plenty of ways to learn to cook simple meals that won’t break the bank! I started calling my mom and asking for recipes and I can now make so many dishes I never thought I’d be able to. Watch a YouTube video or hop on Pinterest to find cooking tutorials it will change your life!

17. Figure Out How To Budget

My mom would be proud I included this one! We have all been there- you get paid, and three days later you’re broke again. It can be really difficult to maintain a budget, so sit down and write down all the “musts” “nice to haves” and “wish list” items. Mint.com is a really great source to help with budgeting!

18. Don't Forget About Taxes

SET ASIDE $ FOR TAXES! Depending on your situation, you probably have a job where you are getting direct deposit. Don’t forget to set aside a little money per paycheck for taxes- I learned the hard way last year to do this!!

19. Make Time for "You"

Being 21 can be a really social time. You may work all day, or have class all day, then you have roommates, clubs, or friend’s events going on what seems like all the time. Don’t forget to carve out time for just you!

20. Read or Write Leisurely

I have always been a really big reader and I love to do so for fun. It can be hard to find the time to read between a busy schedule, but when I get the chance and can crack open a book, it is always rewarding. Reading is really good for you as is writing and I strongly suggest doing so in some of your free time!

21. Live in the Moment- 21 is Only Here Once!

The most important thing being 21 has taught me was to just be in the moment. Now that I look back, the year zipped by, and was full of wonderful moments. I grew a lot, and learned so much about myself. As I am now almost half-way through my senior year, I realize that I’ll only be my age for one year so it is important to live it up! Don’t waste time putting pressure and expectations on yourself- try new things, make new friends, and figure out what you love!

Thomas Rhett was right- being 21 is right where I wanted to be and it truly was an amazing year. If you are 21 or about to be, I wish you an amazing year. It will be a great experience if you let it be. Enjoy the wine, but more importantly enjoy the ride!