Adulting has its perks: decorating your own place, having pay checks in your bank, and becoming a “fur mom,” just to name a few. However, it comes with a lot of responsibilities. We also have to worry about saving money for retirement, figuring out a career path, planning for future offspring (if we want kids), and taking care of ourselves at the same time.
I give major props to anyone in their 20s who seems to have everything under control 24/7. I find my 20s have been all about transitioning into an adult. It can be difficult! No one told me that becoming an adult would be easy, but I just kind of thought it would gradually happen. I mean, so far, it’s been great, but I’ve come across some challenges as well!
If you want to get this adulting thing down, here are some essential life skills you should be practicing on the reg.
Start Building Credit.
If you want to buy a house or a new car, you need to have good credit first. It’s a good idea to start building credit now. All you have to do is visit your bank and talk to them about getting a credit card.
Learning How to Budget.
Figuring out the budgeting plan that works best for you is important. If you analyze your earnings, you’ll learn how much you should actually be spending per month. Managing your finances wisely allows you to save for long-term investment or even go on a dream vacation.
Knowing When to Negotiate a Raise.
Look into the price dynamics of your industry, so you know your professional worth. It will take some research, but you’ll learn if your employer is taking advantage of your skills. If you find out you’re being underpaid, set up a meeting with your boss, and ask for a raise.
Coping With Setbacks.
We all react differently to personal challenges, and it’s important that you learn the best coping mechanisms for you. Some of us need to turn to a trusted mentor or even a therapist. Others may need to go for a run, or have a hot bath! The key is to figure out what works best for you, and use it when you’re dealing with setbacks.
Accepting Critical Feedback.
In any job, you’ll always have something on which you can improve. When you face workplace criticism, it’s important to turn it into something positive. Sure, you may be upset, but your employer is only trying to help you. Critical feedback will help you grow and succeed.
Balancing Your Life.
Don’t fall into a workaholic lifestyle. You need to make time for both your personal and professional lives. It’s important to set boundaries, so you can have a healthy balance. Learn to make time for your hobbies and to not respond to work emails once you get home!
It’s OK if you haven’t mastered these skills yet. A lot of them are things you’ll have to practice for a while because you’re teaching your brain something new. But, having these 7 essential skills under your belt will help you thrive in your 20s and beyond!
Previously published on For The Everygirl
Featured image via Mateus Campos Felipe on Unsplash
