Turning 21 is considered a milestone not only because you’re finally legally able to purchase a margarita, but it’s also an age that marks a the transition that yes, you’re no longer a teenager, but it’s a time that you slowly begin to accept adulthood with maturity and responsibility.
That being said, you’re not expected to know everything at this point, and you’re more than welcome to still have fun and be spontaneous. I can say that in these 21 years, I’ve learned more about myself and the world around me through my experiences, both high and low, gaining invaluable wisdom and lessons that I’ll carry with me moving in the years to come.
1. Spend your paycheck for that trip you’ve been dreaming about.
I’m a true believer that you’ll get the most out of spending your money on a plane ticket than a shopping spree. Sure, you may miss out on having the latest shoe craze that everyone seems to own, but I promise that you won’t regret laying out on the beach sipping on a mimosa, or walking the Golden Gate and taking pictures with your best friend.
2. It only takes six seconds to make yourself laugh.
I don’t understand how one can be sad when there are Vines with dogs doing the running man challenge.
3. Don’t depend on anyone for your happiness.
This is something my dad taught me at a young age, but trust me, it took me years to realize what he meant. In my case, I was in a relationship for what seemed like forever, and when we broke up, I thought that I could no longer be happy if he wasn’t in my life. Well look at me now, I’m happy, and that’s without his presence.
4. To get over any breakup, blast Big Sean’s IDFWU on repeat.
Alright, you can listen to Adele for the first few days after a breakup, but then you got to wipe those tears and bump to some hip-hop and show off your 'gangsta' side, or any other genre that makes you feel like you can take on anyone or anything. Music truly is the best medicine.
5. You don’t have to be good at everything, but be especially good at one thing.
I learned this last summer from a psychiatrist, so I’ll take his word for it. Find that thing that you’re just awesome at and stick with it, everything else will play out as long as you do it to the best of your abilities.
6. Yes, you can say no.
You can’t take on everything, and just because you say no doesn’t mean you don’t care. Realize what you’re capable of. You never know that a 'no' from you can mean a yes for someone else who gets to step up and take on a task the wouldn’t have if you would have said yes.
7. Your phone isn't your life.
Leave your phone home every once in awhile. Disconnect from social media and your texts, whether it be for an hour or for a day. I promise, your friends will still be your friends when you return.
8. Write everything down.
This doesn’t mean you have to go out and write in a planner, (although it is very useful and I do recommend it) but at least jot down any reminders, assignments, birthdays on something, whether that be a sticky note or your hand.
9. If you want to be smart, hang out with smart people.
This is going to sound super random, but I’m pretty sure I heard this from Will Smith when he accepted a Nickelodeon Kids Choice Award back in like, 2004. Ever since his advice has stuck through with me, and I’ve learned to surround myself with people who are hardworking, intelligent, motivated, and genuine.
10. Phone calls are so much better than text messages.
Although texts are convenient in the fast paced world we live in, but texts are to blame at times for some miscommunication. For example, a text that reads “ok” versus “Okay!” can lead to some misunderstanding that you’re upset with a situation. The only thing slightly better than phone calls are Facetime/Skype, and of course, talking to that person in person.
11. Take your makeup off every night.
Your skin will thank you for it.
12. You can’t make everyone happy.
It’s hard for me personally to learn this lesson, especially because it’s all I really want, especially for those who are closest and dearest to me. Do what you can to support that person, but realize you don’t have the magic wand to make someone happy for whatever reason.
13. Stay in school.
Education is important because it’s something that can’t be taken away from you. Knowledge is power, and this also doesn’t mean you have to go out and get a doctorate either.
14. Everything happens for a reason.
This goes for anything great or not-so-great that happens in our lives. Believe that where you are at this moment is where you’re supposed to be, even if it’s not the situation you desire.
15. Learn from rejection.
Didn’t get the job you applied for? Shake it off, and have the mindset of going on to the next one.
16. Keep an open mind and open heart.
You’re going to meet so many people coming from different backgrounds, ideals, values, and interests. Maybe you’ll learn a thing or two that you’ve never been exposed to, and you can see things from a different perspective other than your own. Understand where they’re coming from, and treat them with respect and kindness.
17. If you can’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of others.
Self-care is so important--don’t feel like you’re being selfish, you’re doing this so you can be in your best shape so that you can take care of those around you.
18. Your mom is usually right.
She always has your best interest and wants what’s best for you. Don’t take her for granted, she probably knows you better than anyone else. Her advice is exactly what you need to hear.
19. Let your loved ones know that you care about them regularly.
You never know when it’ll be the last time you’ll see someone, so try not to get too caught up in arguments and learn not to hold a grudge. Forgive, hug it out, and let them know you love them.
20. You’re not going to gain 10 pounds if you eat that extra slice of pizza.
I agree it’s important to eat a healthy diet, as well as regular exercise, but don’t limit yourself to the extreme. Love yourself the way that you are, your physical appearance does not define your self-worth and understand we all come in different shapes and sizes. Treat yourself every now and then, and remember that moderation is key.
21. The best filter is a smile.
Staying positive in situations will make your life a million times easier. Laugh, smile, love, live your life! Do what makes you happy, and I promise that everything else will fall into place. If you don’t know what you love yet, there’s still time for that, but in the meantime, explore new things and hobbies!
