Adulthood: 9-5. Bills. Responsibilities. Networking. Eating Healthy. Relationships. Exercise. WHERE IS THE FUN IN ADULTHOOD? As a kid I remember wishing and saying “When I’m an adult I’m going to have so much fun!” Well *poof* half of my wish has come into fruition but it isn’t quite how I expected it to be. I’m 24 and feel like a full-fledged adult doing adult things but can I be honest? I’m just not feeling it. I miss my childhood, particularly, having fun. Sure it’s fun being able to make my own money, pick my own outfits, wear heels, and wear makeup (can you tell my childhood had an interesting set of rules). Well one thing from childhood that seems to stick with me is a statement my parents often said, “If there’s a problem figure out a way to fix it.” Here are a few “fix it”steps I’m taking to get out of the adult funk!
Stop and smell the Roses. Well I’m more of a peony girl but what the heck the point here is to stop and really enjoy the simple tangible and intangible things in life. The act of gratitude is something we often forget when we’re adults. It’s okay to just appreciate who we are, what we’re doing in life, and how far we’ve come. Simply enjoying the present is a luxury in itself but it is rather necessary and essential in enjoying life.
Eat that bag of Peach Rings! Indulge with reason. I absolutely love peach rings. I have a brand that I just love, CVS’ Gold Select Peach Rings. I could eat them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Willpower is something I’ve developed and continue to practice in my diet as well as other areas in my life. But sometimes it’s okay to indulge a little. Hey life is short, even shorter now that I’m an adult. A couple peach rings won’t hurt. Go ahead. Pick a favorite treat and eat it when you want, without thought about the calories. The key lesson here is the art of balance. In modesty and good reasoning, all things can be enjoyed.
Dance like no one’s watching. As a child I really enjoyed dancing. I was well known among my family and friends as “The dancer”.(Rather lame and hilarious typing that.) No professional classes ever taken but I sure knew how to move. I just really enjoy a good bassline, high hat, and a thumping beat that’ll get me on my toes. As of lately, I realized that Ihave become extremely reserved and even self-conscious when I’d rather enjoy moving and grooving. Well this made me realize that in several arenas in my life I have become too reserved that I’m unable to enjoy moments that are passing me by. It’s okay to be somewhat guarded but crippled by fear is not productive for your personal growth and enjoyment. So kick of those
Being a doormat’s no fun. Don’t compromise too often. It starts off as a simple concession but when it becomes a habit, in which you are not considering your feelings, and then it is a rather horrible experience. Some days it’s a tiny chip at your personal happiness but other days it can get really annoying and leaves you feeling miserable. There is nothing wrong with saying no, I don’t, I’d prefer not, etc. Often the other on the receiving end, if they are a habitual beneficiary of compromises is also getting in the habit and you’re just not being honest with them. Whether it is your partner, friends, cohorts of some sort, be honest and true. Enjoy being happy because when you’re happy and fulfilled you’re able to provide others with a positive attitude and a position to effectively impact others. If I received a quarter for ever person I knew made this change and felt please with themselves, I could buy a new pair of shoes, not a cheap pair either.
Dream Big, Plan Bigger. Don’t forfeit your dreams. Bring those in your life in to them, too. Plan your dream out. Have imaginary dreams, realistic dreams, small accomplished ones.