So you're at the tail end of your quarter of a century on earth. The anxiety is settling in. You often find yourself realizing that you are getting closer to having to become a full blown adult; dirty 30. The thought of it alone leaves at a somber tune. Now if you're like the rest of the general population you feel "old'. The constant updates on your social media feed of the folks you grew up with getting married, having babies, buying houses while you're biggest accomplishment thus far this year being becoming a member of Spotify isn't really helping. Maybe I shouldn't have fucked off much of my adolescence fucking off my adolescence you often wonder. All the would've, should've, and could'ves. Thinking about all the things you didn't do while you had the opportunity and good good credit. The financial aide refund checks you blew on clothes, booze and a whole bunch of shit you no longer own would really come in handy right now. Those good guys you didn't take seriously and how you probably should've applied yourself more in certain areas of your life in a frequent thought in your mind. Now wait, before you get too hard on yourself and jump off the bridge or down another glass of that cheap wine you buy from Walmart it's not too late to make the most of the little bit of life you have left. lol Here's a list of top 10 achievable things you must do before you become 26.
For once in your life relish in doing something not so great without regrets. If you want to finish a whole bucket of ice-cream DO IT. Be selfish, self-centered and focus entirely on you for once. Stop comparing yourself to others be the motherfucking boss you are.
2. COMMIT YOURSELF.
I hope after taking the time to focus on yourself you actually discovered new things that have sparked your interest. You are an talent, an intellect, a freaking genius! Now all you have to do is actually start putting into action the very thing you find out about yourself. You spent much of your youth doubting your abilities or just being plain ole lazy. STOP IT! The time is now to give yourself a fair shot.
3. GET IN SHAPE.
Listen, you gained that freshman 15 over 7 or 8 years ago. It has to come a time in your life when you realize ramen noodles, TV dinners, and Boones Farm liquor does god-awful things to the body. Learn about proper nutrition. Start substituting some food choices for healthier alternatives, pick up an exercise you can at least survive.
4. LEARN TO WALK ALONE.
Codependency just isn't the tea. Stop waiting on the next man to take advantage of the things life have to offer. Get dressed up, enjoy dinner at a nice restaurant, maybe even catch a movie or a show alone. Go out on a night on the town by yourself. Learn to enjoy your own company. Stop so relying so much on others.
5. DONT APOLOGIZE.
Everyone has great qualities & with that being stated everyone has not so great qualities. If you often find yourself speaking before you think, if you are overly opinionated, you curse like a sailor, you snort when you laugh don't apologize for it. Accept your flaws! Not to say that there aren't things that we all should change about ourselves but start to appreciation all that make you YOU.
6. ENJOY TEMPORARY RELATIONSHIPS.
I like to believe that everyone brought into your life has a reason and a season. I've had so many besties who've come and gone it will take me days to talk about them all. I yearn for learning! Often times the acquaintances I have had were a direct reflection of myself at that present time. With growth usually you will appreciate the values in those relationships most of which you have moved on from.
7. NETWORK.
As the old saying goes; your network determines your net-worth. Make it a habit to attend events geared towards people with the same common goal as yourself. Go fully prepared with your 30-second introductions, business cards, note pads and whatever else you deem useful.
8. GIVE BACK.
"If you wait until you can do everything for everybody, instead of something for somebody you'll end up not doing nothing for nobody."- Malcom Bane
Reposting your support for a popular cause just isn't going to cut. Instead of thirsting for attention completing the ice bucket challenge or acting like you give a fuck about following #BokoHaram take the time to figure out how you can truly make a change. Find a cause you truly believe in. Become a mentor, serve the under privileged, donate your money and time. Volunteer often and not just during the holiday season.
9. TAP INTO YOUR INNER CHILD
Children are some of the greatest counsels; they are so raw and pure. If you are close to a child in your family or social circle volunteer to babysit them for a day and do whatever they choose. Be adventurous and silly with the child. Not only can it be a stress-reliever from adulthood but it also can help you become more responsible.
10. READING IS FUNDAMENTAL.
Class is no longer in session but that doesn't mean you shouldn't continue to explore your imagination. Whether you want to believe it or not but everyone can enjoy reading. There's so many genres of literature our there that you are sure to find one that peaks your interest. Not only can it be a great talking topic but studies have shown reading regularly will better your cognitive skills.
