Survival Guide: How To "Adult" | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

Survival Guide: How To "Adult"

"Adulting" isn't easy, but here's a guide.

162
Survival Guide: How To "Adult"

What are you supposed to do when you're 18 or older and still feel like a child? Do you find that your anxiety rises when you hear the question, "What do you want to do after you graduate?"

In middle school and high school, while stressing over a (single) chapter test, or whether my mom would let me go to that party, or whether PE would be fun or lame that day, I also fantasized about the freedom of being in college because I was confined for eight hours a day. I looked at college kids and thought to myself that they were so old and independent and I just couldn't wait to be them. Then, I blinked my eyes, and here I am, 20 years old with graduation right around the corner, wishing my worries were lunch and recess.

The reality is, I don't know what I will be doing after I graduate and neither do most college students. We compare ourselves to our fellow classmates that have their sh*t together, when in actuality, they've just mastered "adulting." By the time you finish this article, you'll have the tools necessary to walk around, head held high, knowing that you, too, can sound like an adult.

Step 1: Dress the part

Okay, at least occasionally. You could be dressed like a hobo, but sitting next to your future boss. I understand 7:30 class is a little rough, and by no means do you need to come to class in heels and a dress or in a coat and tie. No worries––professors appreciate your "nice" t-shirts because the coffee-stained shirt implies you just woke up and forced caffeine quickly down your throat so that you could stay awake in class. And maybe ditch the sweat pants, too; that just screams laziness. Girls: perhaps just a little bit of makeup. Guys: possibly a comb through your hair, so it doesn't totally look like bed-head. Also, along with your nice t-shirts, owning business casual and business professional clothing could be useful for interviews (yeah, that's a thing in college). Desperate times call for desperate measures. Moral of the story: When you look your best, you feel your best and will perform your best. How hard can it be to at least pretend like you care?

Step 2: Be on time

I know your 11:30, morning class is impossible to make on time, but you can do it! Maybe try to go to sleep at 2:00 a.m. instead of 4:00 a.m. Being on time shows that you are reliable, and if you want extra adult points, then show up five minutes early!

Step 3: Have confidence

This is super important! If you want to master "adulting," you really can not be shy. People respect those who show that they have confidence and lose respect for those constantly second guessing themselves. Hold your head high and own each day!

Step 4: Learn eye contact

I know, it can be awkward staring into the eyes of a stranger like you're looking deep into their soul. However, it shows that you are engaged and interested. If you need extra practice, staring competitions work excellently.

Step 5: Get the job done

Even if you go out the night before, or have to stay up all night, take care of your responsibilities and meet your own expectations. Don't half-ass your way through life. Even if you are hungover and throwing up every hour, work hard and complete each task to the best of your ability. You know what you are capable of.

Step 6: Thank you notes

Ah, little things make the biggest differences. Having gratitude is one of the most important things in life, but expressing your gratitude is even more important. Writing a thank-you note takes less than five minutes, and it shows that you're truly appreciate the things done for you instead of just expecting them.

Step 7: Self-control

Yes, that means selfies. Do you see your professors Snapchatting all day, or taking frequent selfies? Sadly, it's very unprofessional to constantly be on your phone. Look where you're going when walking to class, and see the people you're passing, instead of looking down at your phone. Your peripheral vision isn't as reliable as your two eyes, and running into people is embarrassing. Practice putting your phone away when you're doing something so that you can be present and focused on the current task.

Step 8: Correct your default face

If you walk around with the chronic b*tch face, fix it ASAP. It's frightening. People will assume you hate life, hate people, and don't want to be approached whatsoever. However, if you are on the opposite side of the spectrum and possess the over-excited default face, that can be frightening as well. Aim for a happy medium default face that is just simply pleasant.

Adulthood may seem a little intimidating and hard, but a slightly more professional lifestyle is a small measure that can turn your future into a great success. With these 8 simple steps, you'll be able to sound like you have sh*t together and will be able to master the question "What do you plan to do whenever you graduate?" whether or not you have a legit answer to it or not. When in doubt, look them in the eyes with confidence, wearing a smile, dressed in your nice chill clothes and say "I have no idea what I'm doing after I graduate and I'm okay with that."

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

2914
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

1499
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

1134
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

1030
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments