Realizing that this article is my first written work as an adult, I figured I would take this chance to talk about what turning 18 means to me. I can't say I feel ready to leave my youthful years, but I am certainly excited to see what adventures this next chapter brings. I also can't say I really understand adulthood yet, but I know that these things are going to be important to me as I try to figure it out.

Now that I'm an adult...

I'm going to start trusting my instincts. A lot is decided and determined for you in high school, but now that I have the freedom to make choices more independently, I'm going to make them based off what I know and believe.

Now that I'm an adult...

I'm going to focus on making lasting friendships. I know that there is no way I'll make it through my adult years without good friends, so I'm going to try my hardest to keep the friends that have gotten me this far, and to make friends that will stick with me through it all.

Now that I'm an adult...

I'm going to start keeping a journal with memories. I'm realizing that the older I get, the more I value the memories I've made so far. I never want to forget the days I'm living right now, and keeping a journal of the best moments will help to immortalize these years.

Now that I'm an adult...

I'm going to start trying to be more informed. Throughout my teenage years, I've tried my best to have a general understanding of current events, but I want to know more. This next phase of my life will include a conscious effort to hear all reports from many perspectives, and to make informed opinions.

Now that I'm an adult...

I'm going to hold onto the optimism and love for life that I've had so far. Yes, there are things I want to work on as I get older, but there are some things I want to stay the same. I'm not going to turn cynical now that I'm an adult, I'm going to mature with grace, and never let an age dictate my happiness.

There are so many things I hope for in my adult years, but most of all I hope to continue living my best life and becoming the best person I can be. No matter what age I am, I'll always keep making goals and striving for the best.