And Why It’s Actually Awesome
How do you know when you’ve arrived at full-fledged adulthood? Does it sneak up on you, like a pop quiz in pre-calc, or is it earned over time, like your tolerance for Ramen noodles? Now that you’re a diploma-holding citizen of the world (with a plum job at a booming startup to boot), you have it all figured out. Or do you? Here are five tell-tale signs you’ve officially become an adult.
Weekend Mornings Are Glorious
After many grueling hours in the office, it’s finally Friday. That’s right, it’s time to get the party started. Head home, throw on your sweats, turn on Netflix and catch up on “Orange Is the New Black.” You might even get a little crazy and stay up past 11 for one more episode. The former, less-mature you would be partying it up at the bar, but the responsible adult you are refuses to waste a precious weekend hugging the porcelain throne. Instead, you treasure waking up refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Your Accommodations Got Upgraded
Living in a dorm, crashing on someone’s couch, cramming 10 people in one cheap motel room on spring break are out of the question. Remember when any roof over your head would suffice? Not any more. Your days of sleeping on the floor or anywhere with a 50-50 chance of bed bugs are over. Whether it’s your place of residence or your vacation digs, you’re more happy to pay a premium for a comfortable bed, clean quarters and some privacy.
You Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
Instead of wasting your hard-earned dollars at the club, you now have a little money to spare for peace of mind. Instead of major meltdowns, you shrug off minor setbacks. Spilled water all over your smartphone? No biggie, you have insurance for that. Flat tire? No sweat, roadside assistance to the rescue. Look at you, handling life on your own, without help from Mom and Dad.
You’ve Replaced Your Blender with a Juicer
Unlike your college days, where 2 a.m. quesadillas were always a good idea, nutrition plays a bigger part in your daily routine. You’ve wised up to the notion that soda and candy are weighing you down, and you’re turning to green juice and yoga for a hearty pick-me-up. If your Ninja Juicer has replaced your beloved margarita maker, you’re a grown-up.
Hello Dinner Parties
Keggers are for amateurs. You’re no longer pulling all-night ragers with 300 of your closest buds; instead, you’re hosting civilized dinner parties attended by a select number of like-minded individuals. Your appreciation for fine wine, good conversation and an evening that ends at 10 p.m. qualifies you for adult status. The best part is you’re actually getting to know your true friends. Sure, your social networks may have decreased, but you’re fine with it. Why? Because at the end of the day you’d rather have fewer good friends than hundreds of fake acquaintances. And that is what being a grown-up is all about.