I think the hardest thing about going away to college is figuring out how to become an adult. Leaving a household where your parents took care of literally everything (thanks, Mom!) and suddenly becoming your own boss is overwhelming. I feel like I'm doing a pretty good job of being a grown-up, but once in awhile I do something that really makes me feel like I'm #adulting. Twenty-somethings know what I'm talking about.
1. Taking care of yourself when you're sick
When I was younger, my mom took such good of me if I got sick. Now, if I puke, I have to clean it up. Gross. I also have to make my own chicken noodle soup. I wish my mom could take of me forever.
2. Making a to-do list
To-do lists are so mom-ish, but I thrive off of them. Plus, they make me feel accomplished as heck.
3. Planning your activities around the weather
It never fails to make me feel old when I say, "There's a chance of snow on Thursday. How about we do Friday instead?"
4. Scheduling your own doctor’s appointments
Most twenty-somethings fear talking on the phone, myself included. I draw the line at going to the doctor alone, though.
5. Getting your own toilet paper
Nothing makes me feel like I'm officially #adulting like picking up a giant pack of toilet paper at Target...or smuggling some rolls in my backpack.
6. Making food without needing to ask your mom questions
"Yeah, Mom? Can you use canola oil instead of vegetable oil? Okay, thanks."..."Hey Mom, me again. This recipe wants two cups of sugar, but I only have one and a half. Should I just try it anyways?"
7. Holding your tongue
In high school, I was a lot more willing to comment on racist Facebook statuses and sexist Tweets. Now, I'd rather just avoid the conflict. It isn't worth it.
8. Saving your paycheck (or your tax refund) to pay your bills
I was excited to get money back from my tax refund, but it all went right back into my bank account. When you're 20 years old, responsibilities come before shopping sprees, unfortunately.
9. Balancing your checkbook
Do people in their twenties write checks, or is it just me? There's something so satisfying about getting a sum in your checkbook that equals the sum on your bank account.
10. Going places alone
In high school, I didn't do anything alone. Now, I enjoy my solitude a little more. I walk to class alone and eat lunch by myself. It makes me appreciate my friends so much more!
11. Packing your own lunches
I miss the days where my mom made my lunches for me. Now I just make a sandwich and wish someone had cut the crust off.
12. Actually eating your vegetables...on purpose
I never thought my fridge would have carrots, broccoli and celery in it. I still don't really like raw vegetables, but I know they're good for me, so I force myself to eat them.
13. Taking a multivitamin
I've got to make sure I'm getting all my vitamins so I can stay healthy. That way I don't have to call the doctor!
14. Planning a life after graduation
Resumes, cover letters and job applications are the worst part of #adulting because they remind me that, someday, I will be a full-time adult. Scary.