I cannot tell you how many times I get on social media and see all my peers getting engaged, having kids or buying a house. Being extremely happy for them is an understatement, but then you get to thinking about your own life and events that are happening. Reflecting on my days from high school to present, I can confidently say that I have no interest in having a permanent love interest right now, a child to call my own or taking up the responsibilities that come with purchasing your first home. I am here to tell you: it is perfectly alright to take a different path in life.

Going into my twenties, I am realizing how rich and amazing life really is. Being a sophomore in college, I am meeting new people and traveling to new places. I have begun thinking more about how this world is mine to travel and explore. I want to savor and enjoy those experiences. I say this because some people don't get to have such adventures because of adult responsibilities. You are not given an expiration date on your life, but you're not guaranteed a life either. It's important to sit down and decide how you want to leave your imprint on the world. Often, we get suckered into our society's stereotypical way of living our lives, which is to get married, have children and immediately put on your grown up pants. But I am the millennial that will not go about my life based on someone else's beliefs and values. In my life, I have chosen to take things slow.

Having so much out in the world and having my wanderlust personality, it's hard to imagine myself settling down anytime soon. My spirit is free and I am looking at the world as my playing field. Instead of using my young age for raising a family, I will be discovering more about myself and what I can do for the world. Most people prefer to have a spouse by their side while they grow as individual by learning how to cook, meet new friends and step out of their comfort zones. I, as a young woman, do not mind taking on these obstacles in life alone. These situations in life will only make me a more confident and stronger woman than before. Becoming a more well-rounded and sensible young woman will make me a better role model for those in my life when I do decide to settle down.

Even if I don't have every detail of my future figured out, it will all unfold in time. Although I'm turning 20 and escaping the teen years, that doesn't mean I have to grow up immediately. Just take a breath and recognize how amazing life is no matter where or who you are.