Hey there, future world conquerors! As you teenagers strut through your high school hallways and navigate the ever-twisting labyrinth of adolescence, you might be wondering what “the real world” actually holds. Well, guess what? The real world isn’t all rainbows and unicorns.
But fear not! We’ve scoured a social media thread filled with wise adults ready to spill the beans on what you should know before you step out into the wild and wonderful world of adulthood. Buckle up because it’s about to get real!
#1 – During High School, Learn How To Learn
Ah, high school – a time for discovering quadratic equations and the mysteries of Shakespearean sonnets. But hold up, young scholars! It turns out that mastering how to learn is even more vital than the actual facts and figures you’re cramming into your noggin.
Don’t let procrastination be your BFF; develop a work ethic that would make even the most diligent squirrel envious. Why? Because when the college avalanche hits, you’ll be thankful you have a work ethic to dig you out, and you won’t be buried under unfinished assignments like some forgotten treasure.
#2 – A Few Good Friends Will Enrich Your Life
Okay, teenagers, listen up! Friendships aren’t like video game NPCs; you can’t just leave them on pause and expect them to level up. It’s all about quality over quantity, my pals.
Maintaining a handful of close friendships can be a game-changer. In the grand scheme of life, you don’t need a friend army – just a trusty sidekick or two. Just make sure to make time and put in the work to maintain your close friendships at all costs.
#3 – Confidence Opens as Many Doors as Competence
Imagine you’re at the door of opportunity, and you have two keys – competence and confidence.
While competence is like the “Open Sesame” magic word, confidence is your charming smile that convinces the door to swing wide.
So, dear teens, don’t let self-doubt be your limiter. Strut through life with a sprinkle of self-assuredness, and you might find doors opening that you never even knew were there.
#4 – Adults Can Lie to Your Face
People aren’t always as honest as a puppy with guilty eyes after eating your homework. It doesn’t matter if they’ve got wrinkles and bills to pay – they can still bend the truth like a pretzel.
Just because someone’s rocking an adult-sized outfit doesn’t mean their words are gold. Develop a finely tuned lie detector, and remember, trusting but verifying could save you from some epic facepalms.
#5 – Life Never “Settles Down”
Picture this: you’re sipping your morning coffee, basking in the serenity of adult life finally settling down. But wait – plot twist! Life’s more like a rollercoaster than a tranquil lake.
If there’s something you hold dear, don’t wait for the mythical “settled” moment. Carpe diem, because before you know it, those “I’ll do it next week” promises can pile up like overdue library books.
#6 – Freedom Comes With Responsibilities
Ah, the sweet dream of adulting – no curfews, no rules, just you ruling your castle. But before you start your victorious dance, remember this: adult freedom comes with adult responsibilities.
And guess what? Dishes don’t wash themselves, and your home won’t sparkle without some elbow grease. So, embrace your domestic prowess because in the real world, “whatever you want” might involve scrubbing, sweeping, and sanitizing.
#7 – Comparison Is the Thief of Joy
That habit of scrolling through social media and feeling like everyone else’s life is a tropical vacation, while yours is a rainy day? Put a stop to it!
Comparing yourself to others is like trying to fit an elephant into a teacup – it just doesn’t work. Instead, measure your growth against your former self. You’re your own hero on this journey, so focus on becoming a better you, rain or shine.
#8 – $1000 Is a Lot To Owe but Not a Lot To Have
Think of money like pizza slices – you can devour a stack of them in no time unless you have self-control.
So, before you dive headfirst into a debt volcano, remember that every dollar you spend now might mean a “ramen nights only” future. Save, invest, and befriend your financial future – your wallet will thank you!
#9 – Everything Is Expensive When You Move Out
Hold onto your allowance, teens! The moment you escape the nest, a whirlwind of bills will descend like water drops in a rainstorm. Suddenly, the dreamy freedom of adulthood comes with a price tag attached to every darn thing – from toilet paper to electricity.
Even that “free” coffee at work? Yeah, you’re still paying for it in hours of labor. So, get ready to manage those newfound expenses like the budgeting pro you’re destined to become.
#10 – Hard Work Does Not Guarantee Success
Life isn’t a vending machine where you punch in hard work and get success as your prize. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things won’t go as planned.
But that’s no reason to toss in the towel. Keep being kind and working hard, because while success isn’t guaranteed, your character and perseverance will shine regardless.
#11 – Failure Is Just the Start
Imagine life as a puzzle with pieces that sometimes just don’t fit. Even if you’ve got a genius-level strategy, life might toss in some wildcard pieces. And guess what? That’s okay.
Failure is like a mischievous sidekick – it doesn’t always play by the rules. If your dreams hit a roadblock, remember that a detour could lead you to an even more incredible destination.
#12 – You Are the Main Character in Your Story Only
You might be the hero in your life’s blockbuster, but in the grand cinematic universe, you’re more like an extra in a bustling crowd scene. And here’s the twist – everyone else is also the star of their own movie. So, be the best darn lead role you can be, but remember to share the spotlight with your fellow co-stars.
#13 – Your Job Can’t Replace Your Family
Your job might be the hottest thing since sliced bread, but to your boss, you’re replaceable like a used sponge. Take care of yourself and your loved ones. If you’re stuck in a workplace that feels like a dreary dungeon, don’t hesitate to pack your bags and seek greener pastures. Your mental health and happiness are worth their weight in gold coins.
#14 – You Likely Have To Plan Your Own Parties
In the wild realm of adulthood, birthday parties don’t just magically pop out of thin air like candy from a pinata. If you want a bash that’d make a rock star jealous, you’ll need to summon your party-planning powers.
So, take charge, embrace the chaos, and make your special day one for the record books.
#15 – Each Person’s Struggle Is Praiseworthy
You know those people who seem to have it all figured out? Guess what? They’ve probably faced their fair share of dragons and dungeons too.
Everyone’s got a story, and those battles they’ve fought make them the fierce warriors they are today. So, the next time life throws you a curveball, remember that even the strongest knights have scars and stories to tell.
#16 – Decisions Define Life
Life isn’t a multiple-choice test with just one “right” answer. You’re a canvas painted by every decision you make – some are glorious brushstrokes, while others might be more like a finger-painting mishap. Just remember, you’re a masterpiece in progress, and it’s the sum of your choices that’ll create your unique work of art.
#17 – Cars Aren’t Toys
Attention, aspiring roadsters! That sleek metal steed you’re cruising in might make you feel invincible, but your squishy, vulnerable body inside? Not so much. As you zoom through life’s highway, always remember that a moment’s distraction can lead to a lifetime of regret. So, put down the phone, keep your eyes on the road, and cherish the safety bubble that keeps you whole and hearty.
#18 – Learn About Finances Now
Think of your wallet as your trusty spellbook – the more you know about managing money, the less likely you’ll end up in a financial dungeon.
Learn the art of budgeting, master the cryptic language of taxes, and unravel the mysteries of investing. Your future self will be eternally grateful for the treasure trove of financial wisdom you’ve amassed.
#19 – Life Is Extremely Unfair, and There Is No Reason for That
Brace yourselves because here’s a cosmic truth bomb: life doesn’t always play by the rules of fairness. You might be wielding a just cause and an army of righteousness, but sometimes the universe flips the script.
That’s just how the story unfolds. Accepting life’s quirks and injustices doesn’t mean giving up – it means facing challenges head-on, knowing that the odds might not always be in your favor.
#20 – You Are Responsible for Everything You Do, and You Will Be Held Accountable
In the grand book of life, every action is a chapter written by you. Whether it’s a daring adventure or a simple choice, the pen is in your hand. And here’s the plot twist – your choices have consequences, both good and bad. So, before you scribble down another entry, pause and consider the outcome. Because the world’s greatest authors aren’t defined by the words they write but by the impact those words make.
Navigating Adulthood
And there you have it. The real world is a grand adventure waiting for you to dive in. From learning to be a lifelong learner to realizing that adulting sometimes includes washing dishes, these insights from seasoned explorers will help you navigate the maze of adulthood with a little less confusion and a lot more confidence.
The wisdom you’ve gained from this social media post is just as valuable as any viral meme. Get ready because the journey ahead is filled with twists, turns, and the occasional fall.
Featured Image Credit: kues /Depositphotos.com.
This article was originally published on Ash & Pri.
Like our content? Be sure to follow us.