School teaches you some really important things that make you grow intellectually: English, History, Science, Math, etc and the importance of physical education, as well as the basics of health issues. But one thing that school doesn't really teach us, is how to do some basic everyday life skills.
We parade through our teenage years with absolutely no idea what we're doing. Fake it till you make it. Even when we turn eighteen, as legal adults, we can still kind of get away with going through life without much regard for ourselves or our surroundings.
So, in honor of me turning twenty this year, a list of some basic things every young woman should know how to do by her twentieth birthday.
1. Make at least one item/meal that your super good at
Any meal, eggs and bacon, mac & cheese (or another simple pasta dish), just something that you can do for yourself instead of relying on takeout or microwave meals all the time.
2. Do laundry or fold clothes
You're too old to be having your mom still doing it for you.
3. Basic first aid
Everyone should know basic first aid, because it's so, so important. Sometimes help doesn't arrive in time. You don't need to be at the same level as a doctor, but you should know how to take care of yourself or a friend.
4. Setting a budget
And sticking to/keeping it.
5. How to properly do makeup
Whether its a "natural" look that you're going for or a more dressy/formal kind of look.
6. How to dress for any occasion
The Huffington Post breaks down everything you need to know to translate the dress code on the invitation.
7. Be able to admit when you've made a mistake
Because nothing is more important that admitting when you're wrong.
8. Accept a compliment
And how to give one, if it applies to the situation.
9. How to walk away from toxicity
Relationships, friendships, anything. And how to do so gracefully.
10. Say no
And saying it nicely or in a way that doesn't upset anyone too much.
11. Basic sewing skills
Even if it's not perfect stitch and a little messy.
12. Let go of old grudges
Whether they are ones you have had since high school or more recent.
13. Write a killer resume
Complete with coordinating fonts and your many accomplishments. And on that note, this doesn't just apply to women either.
14. Give someone a genuine apology
And doing it gracefully.
15. How to find items in a grocery store
This includes buying the right ingredients for dinner and also buying the things you actually need whilst also keeping your shopping list in your head and knowing exactly what you need to refill or replace.
16. Walking in heels
Not knowing how was only cute at high school dances.
17. Own up to your mistakes
It's official, you can't blame everything on the cat (or your younger sibling) anymore.
18. Make small talk
The more you do it the easier it will get.
19. Tell someone how you really feel
Like in a straight up, no BS kind of way. We're not in high school anymore.
20. Last but not least, be able to let go of the small things
Because sometimes it's just too exhausting to start World War III over the shirt your sister borrowed without asking.
Try to make the most out of your final months as a teenager.
Energetic dance performance under the spotlight.
Taylor Swift in a purple coat, captivating the crowd on stage.
Taylor Swift shines on stage in a sparkling outfit and boots.
Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers sharing a joyful duet on stage.
