Transitioning to adulthood is not easy, but it does not have to be terrible either. I have been taking it as a huge learning experience. When I was younger, even just a year ago, I had no idea how much I would learn. I had no idea how much I would develop and grow. It comes with pain and hurt. Be prepared for dark days, but don’t forget that at the end of dark days comes a chance to try again.
Let’s start with the basics: money. Did you know grocery shopping would cost $150 a week? Did you know that if you want to eat healthy you have to be willing to empty your bank account? It has been getting better and I have been figuring things out, but it really makes you realize you are going to need to make your own breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the rest of your life.
Another tough thing you will really begin to see is that not everyone has the same heart as you, and that is okay. Not everyone has the intentions you do. Although I have been struggling with this, I have just been trying to recognize the importance of making sure people do not take advantage of kindness. Do not give people the chance to walk all over you, because the reality is, some will.
Moving on, it is worth mentioning the importance of minding your business. Once you reach a certain age, there are things you just can’t do anymore. Allow people to do what they need to do. Unless someone is in danger, let them be because they are embarking on their own story, not yours. People need to make mistakes and go through challenging experiences to find themselves. I have found strength in what I have been through while becoming my adult self. I am thankful that the journey has not been smooth sailing, because otherwise I would still be the same person I was when I was in high school.
No one really can tell you what to do or what you’ll experience because no two people will ever have the same path. What we can do is offer advice and tell each other to be prepared. Be prepared to have to go through things alone. No one will be there to hold your hand all of the time. Be prepared to reflect, and keep moving forward when all you want to do is absolutely nothing. There’s nothing that can stop the clock from ticking, but remember, it is your path. It does not need to follow the same roads as your friends and family.
