Emily
How will I be a successful adult?
Like many people, I have always longed for the day that I would become a legal adult. I mean, as a child it always seemed like a fantasy land. Who did not want to make their own rules? I know that I did. But in five short months, I will be moving out and turning eighteen in the span of one week. And honestly I do not know if I’m ready, I personally think no one ever truly is. I am just wondering if there are any tips on how to be a successful adult. Whether it is on how to spend money, finding an apartment, how to dress for a job interview, etc. Any ideas/help would be greatly appreciated!
#advice
3 answers
Matt Hartman
Matt’s Answer
Are the thoughts I'm concerned about, something I can prepare for?...
Some things you will just need to learn and deal with when they arise, such as what do you do if your pipes leak, or how to dress for an interview... YouTube will be your friend, as no one can prepare for everything. Or if you have a support structure that is also good!
Have others experienced what I am worried about?...
The answer is probably yes. Think about the folks that you see around you, they have made the move at some point in their lives. Do you see where they had struggles? If so, speak to someone you trust about it.
Other thoughts not necessarily pertain to you but for others that may read - Is this something you are rushing to do? Try to put yourself in a position if possible to take your time and ensure you will be safe in your new environment. Being on your own can be a great experience, but don't rush to be on your own if it will jeopardize your safety. If you are getting out of dangerous situation then you may have less time to prepare and the potential danger of inaction would outweigh other concerns. However, putting yourself in a dangerous situation just to prove you can be on your own isn't worth it in the end.
Remember if you are reading this (yes you) you are important and there is no one in the entire world like you, so be safe and just remember how awesome you are - you've been through other things in your life and you have gotten through - you will do great!
Souxsie Campbell
Souxsie’s Answer
Hi Emily, change can be overwhelming for everyone and evoke a lot of anxiety around the unknown. First, have faith in yourself and trust the universe that you've been given the tools you need to survive in the world. I think it's great that you are thinking of strategies now to enable a successful transition into "adulthood." Everybody has different experiences -- some attend college, some take a gap year, some find jobs, roomates etc and launch more independently. Embrace the unknown with a sense of adventure and do some reading -- personally I read a lot of self help books and autobiographies -- you can learn so much from the experience of others, like mentors. And, of course, embrace the unknown with a sense of adventure. In my experience I've found that we tend to learn what you need to learn along the way. Best of luck!
Souxsie recommends the following next steps:
Pak Wong
Pak’s Answer
Cultivating a relationship with God and getting to know Jesus is the best step to success. The world will throw all kinds of tips and advice on making more money, standing out, being popular, or gaining power/prominence. In the end, no one knows you better than God. If you ask Him, I assure you He will answer the best path for you to take.
As a Christian, that is my on-the-spot answer. Of course, you also need to remember to take care of things on your end too. Being on time, staying healthy, eating good food, being courteous and respectful to others. Self-discipline is a critical factor as well. OK, I hope my two cents to you helps.
PW
Reference
The Holy Bible. New International Version. (1984). International Bible Society.