On November 30th, 24 years ago, I became a mother for the second time.
There’s no denying 24 is a strange time in ones life; I know it was for me. And although you don’t have two kids like I did (thank God) I’m guessing you’re finding yourself in this state as well. Trust me, I get it.
My guess is that you’re finding yourself in that “in between” stage. The one in which You’re definitely an adult, with all of the rights and responsibilities of one, but you still have the energy and mindset of a teenager.
This certainly isn’t 20 when you’re “almost” legal, or 21 when you’re “really legal” and ordering a drink at dinner (or anytime actually) is not only allowed but perfectly acceptable.
You’re not 22 when you finally graduated college and got your dream job (or what you thought was your dream job), or 23 when you quit that job to find something better. It’s freakin’ 24!!!
In my usual fashion, here are the words of wisdom from someone who was once 24 and has been right where you’re at – only with two kids in tow.
1. You’re getting older. And so are we. As are your grandparents. We’re not gonna be around forever. So as much as I admire this new found independence you have; PLEASE make some time for family too.
2. You’ve probably reached a “zero effs given” mentality. Wanna pierce your nose? Do it. Want to shave your head? Go right ahead! Want to leave and backpack the world for six months. BYE. Just make sure you can still make rent next month. And that you’re health insurance is up to date. You know how accident prone you are.
3. It’s ok to use “I’m too old to be doing/saying/acting…..” as a reason to stop yourself from doing/acting/saying things you don’t want to or shouldn’t do. As much as you don’t want to admit it, you probably are. Maturity isn’t a bad thing. Now I’m not saying you’re super old and your youth isn’t something to hold onto as long as possible, I’m just saying whatever you do or say will probably be used against you in the future.. probably in a job interview for your REAL dream job. So think wisely about what you put out there for all the world to see.
4. On that note, you might want to consider cutting back on some of the social media accounts and spend a tiny bit more time updating your LinkedIN. As ridiculous as this may sound, you’re just going to have to trust me on this one.
5. While you now have a steady income and can probably afford to splurge; DON’T! Your credit is more important than ever. Refrain as much as you can. Credit cards are REALLY only for emergencies. And no, a night on the square a week before payday isn’t considered an emergency, but food and gas most certainly are. I speak from experience on this one.
6. Learn to balance you’re work and social life. There are times when calling in sick for a concert is not only acceptable but essential to your quality of life. The secret is knowing when. If you use up all your hours at ACL then accept the fact that Coachella isn’t gonna happen for you this year and that you’re probably going to have to go in even on the days you really do feel like crap. Don’t forget the financial part. Without that job, EVERYTHING is out.
7. Appreciate the people in your life. All of them. Even the ones you wish weren’t there; certain Co- workers, your boss, etc. A few years from now you’ll realize what an important role they played in shaping who you became.
8. While I’ve always admired the enormous amount of friends you have always had it might be time to weed some of them out. Between work and home responsibilities; a little me-time is more important than ever. If ALL of these people are so important to you that you just can’t fathom the thought of EVER turning one of them away, then learn how to prioritize your time. A REAL friend will understand.
That’s it! I do hope you enjoyed your day. It was really hard not to spend it with you but one of the things I need to accept is that your life is your own and your home isn’t with me anymore. I promise I’m trying… and I didn’t cry as long as I usually do so I think I’m finally becoming a grown up too! You’re welcome.😊❤️🎁
Mama loves you to the moon and back. Always have, always will.
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