Adulting. This is a verb so often used to describe the way an adult should act. And, I have noticed, my fellow graduates of class 2017, are fearful of adulting. A friend of mine once said, “Hard times create hard men. Hard men create good times. Good times create weak men. Weak men create hard times. Endless cycle.” A lot of people are going to tell you what you should do. What you should do, is whatever your gut tells you to do. However, there will be things that you do not want to do, or do not enjoy doing, but should do anyway, such as taking the garbage out, or cleaning the bathroom regularly. Suffering builds character, it is not something to be afraid of. It puts fire in your belly and it is motivational. It teaches you how to be humble and how to be grateful for what you have, because not everyone has what you have.

To my fellow graduates of class of 2017, who are just transitioning into adulthood. Here are my five myths about adulting, debunked.

Work a regular 9-5 job in an office somewhere, and make six figures.

I do not like the sound of that. I know I am not a regular 9-5 job kind of girl, I have been there and done it. It’s not for me. What about people who are peace officers? Police officers? Nurses?!! They don’t have a regular 9-5. Doctors, too. Does that make them any less of an adult?!

You should get married.

Well, if you feel like getting married is on your agenda that is great. If you want to spend the rest of your life with someone, then that is wonderful. But, you do not have to, nor should you, if you would rather be alone. It is your choice!

You should have children.

If settling down and having a family is not something you can picture for yourself, if you would rather travel alone, or travel only with your honey, then skip it! There are plenty of other people in the world who want children, and who can love them the way children deserve to be loved. Not everyone is cut out to be a parent, and that does not make you any less of an adult than parents.

Eventually, everything gets so much easier.

No, the hell it doesn’t! Honestly, things get more complex the older I get. Actually, learn a good stress release tactic, because that’ll help you throughout your journey. For me, that would be hiking or walking. Some people really have this adult thing figured out, whereas I am living on a prayer. I have so much more to lose. Yes, mistakes are a great learning tool. However, some mistakes I try to avoid making – I cannot afford to be set back too far behind.

Look at so-and-so, they are doing so well for themselves!

Be cautious, especially on social media. I mean who records themselves going through hard times?!! Most people do not want to show the world that they are suffering. There is absolutely no need to compare your life with someone else’s. We do know the battles people endure behind closed doors. Be grateful for what you have got, and make the most of it!