Am I the most mature person? No. Realistically, I am still very immature. But, I am growing more and more mature everyday. I tend to have a bad habit of repeating things that usually lead to consequences, which for me is usually being late for various things. Therefore, I thought I would reflect on five of the lessons I learn everyday from learning how to adult.
1. Get ready ahead of time, or else you'll be late.
I have the hardest time with this, and it's one of my worst problems. I can't drive yet, so I usually get rides from family members. I usually run late when I'm trying to get to work. I plan on getting ready, hopefully, about 15-20 minutes earlier next time so I won't be in a rush and stressed. My advice, and my parents' advice, would be to get ready early so then you can relax and hang out until you have to leave.
2. Fix your own problems.
I broke my computer and my phone this summer and paid about $300 altogether just to get them fixed. I paid money that I had earned from working to fix things that were important to me, and the best part was I didn't ask my parents to pay for it. Sure my tuition savings took a slight dent, but I fixed my own problems, which is all that mattered. If you break something or end up in a situation, do the adult thing and try to fix it yourself before you ask your parents for help.
3. Make things happen on your own and don't rely on your parents.
Pardon my French, but call the doctor and make your own damn appointment. I am tired of seeing people complaining in various posts online about how they can't make a doctor's appointment and want their mom to do it. If you need Advil, go to the store and buy some, or if you need to reschedule a dentist's appointment, reschedule it yourself. Start taking some responsibility for yourself (a quote my Dad loves).
4. Being healthy is pretty important.
I've started walking a mile and a half to work most days (it's great exercise) and trying to eat healthier-- like having oatmeal in the morning instead of cereal. It not only helps with my anxiety, but with the small improvements I see when I weigh myself makes me happy. I don't want to end up regretting my weight when I'm older, which is why I want to be proactive now. I have a high metabolism now, and I'm glad I'm making small changes now. Try making small changes like taking a walk once a day or eating more fruit, and it will help!
5. Don't isolate yourself.
I have a huge habit of when I come home on breaks to isolate myself in my room and not spend time with my family. I'm trying to be a little better at that so that I won't look back on my summer break and wish I spent more time with my family. Family is basically your connection in life, and you have to hold onto it. Don't cut off that connection, and instead, choose to strengthen it. You'll be glad you did.
Hopefully, these lessons that I've learned (and am still working on) can help. Nobody is perfect, and I am definitely the definition of a work in progress. Just keep doing your best, even if you keep messing up (like me). Eventually you'll get the hang of being an adult.