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Am I Adulting Right? – Part 1: Navigating the First Steps After College

Updated: Nov 16


Entering adulthood can feel like stepping into a world where no one really tells you what to expect. One moment, you're wrapped up in the comforts of college life, and the next, you're staring at your first paycheck (which somehow never seems as big as you imagined). Whether it's managing your finances, finding a balance between work and personal life, or just figuring out if you’ve got this whole "adulting" thing right, it can feel overwhelming. So, Am I adulting right? Let’s break it down.


1. The Struggle of Finding a Job You Actually Like

Graduating from college can feel like you're launching into a sea of opportunities. But let’s be real: your first job probably won’t be your dream gig. Many young adults start with entry-level positions that don't pay well. And that's okay! The job market is tough, and experience is key. Just remember: this is not your forever job. It's a stepping stone toward your career. Focus on learning new skills, building connections, and figuring out what excites you in your field.

Tip: Stay positive and remember that everyone starts somewhere. The “right” job might not come instantly, but it will come with time and perseverance.


2. The Harsh Reality of Bills (And Why They Always Seem to Pile Up)

Remember those carefree days when your biggest concern was whether you’d make it to the weekend party? Well, now it’s time to face reality: bills. Rent, utilities, student loans, and unexpected expenses can seem like they come out of nowhere. Suddenly, you’re managing your finances for the first time, and it can feel like your paycheck disappears before it even hits your bank account.

Tip: Set up a budget. Track your spending. And don’t be afraid to negotiate bills where you can (yes, you can call your internet provider and ask for a discount). Little steps like these will make a big difference in feeling more in control of your finances.


3. Living Alone: It’s Not All It’s Cracked Up to Be

You finally have your own space, right? No roommates to deal with, no parents hovering over you. While it may seem like freedom, living alone has its challenges. Cooking for yourself (or relying on takeout), doing laundry, and keeping your apartment clean are all now your responsibility. And sometimes, it’s hard to stay motivated to do these things when no one’s watching.

Tip: Keep it simple. You don’t have to cook gourmet meals every night, and you don’t need to have your house spotless 24/7. But making small routines, like meal prepping or setting aside time to clean, can make life feel a bit more manageable.


4. Feeling Like You’re Faking It Until You Make It

Let’s face it: nobody really feels like they have it all together in their twenties. Whether you’re figuring out how to deal with work stress, social obligations, or even finding your personal style, it’s normal to feel like you’re just “faking it.” But here’s the thing: everyone else is too. The truth is, we’re all still figuring it out. So don’t stress about appearing “perfect” to others—focus on building your confidence and doing the best you can. That’s enough.

Tip: Give yourself grace. Life is messy, and adulthood is full of trial and error. If you make a mistake, don’t beat yourself up. Learn from it and keep moving forward.


Conclusion: The First Step of Adulting

Adulting is a work in progress. It’s about figuring out how to navigate the world in your own way, facing challenges, and celebrating your small wins. Part of being an adult is learning that no one has all the answers—and that’s completely fine. So take a deep breath, enjoy the ride, and keep asking yourself: Am I adulting right? Chances are, you are.

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