As I embark on the first birthday of my late-twenties (that would be my 27th), I find myself reflecting on my first six seven years in the decade. It’s been nothing short of an adventure so far, and so I feel compelled to share my mishaps lessons with you, gentle reader. Onward:
Age 20-21
1. Sure, sign up for that credit card your last semester of college. Just remember to pay. the. full. balance. each. month. Or you might still be shaking your head at that iPod shuffle purchase five years later.
2. Remember how dad taught you how to change the oil on your car? Or told you how often to get an oil change? Yeah, that process actually needs to happen. More than once a year.
Age 22-23
3. Your parents are nearly always right. (Sorry 16-year-old self!) Whether it comes to opinions about guys you’ve dated, friends you’ve made, roommates you’ve lived with, or even what color you look best in. They are probably right.
4. Sleep is crucial to a healthy life. 4 hours of sleep before a full day of work? Not a good idea! (This is me shaking my finger at 23-year-old Natalie.)
5. Yes, getting a dog is a good idea. It’s going to take a lot of work, but will be one of the best choices you’ve ever made. Some people say jobs teach responsibility, but I think pets do.
Age 24-25
6. Yes, you can have it all. Just maybe not at the same time. (Full time job, plus graduate school, plus performing, plus writing – not an ideal schedule if you’re too tired to enjoy it all). It’s okay to let your life goals take time, and enjoy the ride a bit.
7. Cheesy posters aside, attitude is everything! The more positive you are, the more things will come your way.
8. Stop procrastinating! Even when it comes to hard choices and hard deadlines. Just. Do. It.
Age 26
9. Life can sometimes be a series of choices – and a series of compromises. It’s okay if the path you choose gives you unexpected road blocks.
10. Change is good, and change is necessary. Change means that you’re evolving as a person. Change is also hard. Get used to it!
Here’s to a great 27th year!
Happy Birthday!!! Enjoy the day…..take a bubble bath. Eat some thing rich & good……chocolate cover strawberries. Buy something fun…cute shoes. And always remember how much you are loved.