The Millennial generation is often criticized (I am a millennial). We are dragged a lot. We ruin the housing market by living at home for longer, getting wed later or not at any time, and collecting participation awards.
No matter if you agree with us or not, we are a nostalgic lot. That’s why you see things like Fuller House streaming on Netflix. We may long for simpler days because we entered into the job market in the Great Recession, when the challenges were great (and we didn’t get a prize for it). Who knows? It’s time to make some simple steps towards becoming an adultier adult. Here are a dozen simple things that you can do.
1. First, you must understand that there is no one right path.
It’s okay if you haven’t moved out yet, or if you are back at home. It’s okay if you’re not where you want to be in your life or your parents’.
2. Don’t delay your goals
Want to write a novel? Now is the time to act. Want to climb the corporate ladder? Now is the time to apply for that promotion. Want to marry and have children? Stop acting like Casanova,” Tessa Clare Endencia said, Asset Creative House’s managing director in Portland, Oregon. The sooner you put your act together, you’ll be able to enjoy some fun benefits.
3. Use your words
Do not be afraid to voice your opinion, whether you are at work, in an intimate relationship, or negotiating a lease. Use your voice.
4. Call your family members on the reg
This is a really simple one — and it looks great.
5. Budget your finances
It does not have to be complex, but it must exist. Knowing your income and expenses, as well as how much of each paycheck you save is important. Don’t forget to include the fun stuff — such as vacations, brunches, and caffeine that helps you get through Mondays. Do you need some extra money for these things to happen? Maybe it’s about time you…
6. Enjoy the freebies
You can borrow the book from your local library instead of downloading it on your e-reader. You can borrow it from your local library rather than downloading it to your eReader. Are you tired of paying every time to check in your luggage? You can reduce or eliminate these fees with a travel rewards credit card. See what other things you can receive for free while on vacation.
7. Balance the scales
According to a Bentley University study, 77% of millennials believe that flexible work hours help them be more productive. Your company should offer flexible work hours, the opportunity to work from home or unlimited vacation. Enjoy these benefits, but don’t go overboard. Even your millennial colleagues will notice if you aren’t achieving anything while “working” from home.
8. Understanding the benefits
In the same Bentley University study, it was found that millennials value health benefits over frequent promotions and pay raises. This is despite that most Americans do not feel that health care should be a right. When you are considering a job, you should consider the benefits that the company provides.
9. Get life insurance
I know. Getting life insurance sounds dull. The digital age has made it possible to get life insurance without having to sit down in an office or your living room with a salesperson. Compare your options online. Why wait when you can lock-in a better rate the younger you are?
10. Check your credit report…
You can get a free copy of yours every 12 months by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com.
11. Monitor your credit score
These scores come into play during a lot of major life events, from getting a new credit card to securing a mortgage. Some employers even look at a version of your credit report as part of the application process. With all the emphasis on this three-digit number, it’s important to know yours (and how to get it in tip-top shape).
12. Don’t worry so much about the charge
Let’s be honest — millennials are addicted to their phones. A 2016 Bank of America survey found that four out of ten millennials spend more time on their phone than with the people they know.
It’s possible to become so dependent upon these devices, that when they begin to fail, we experience low Battery Anxiety. Do not be that person. Connect with friends, take part in the world around you, and charge your phone at home.
