1. Opening and maintaining a checking account
So, you’ve got some money coming in. Yay! Now, you just have to figure out the best way to organize it. Because stashing cash in the bottom of your sock drawer is not the safest idea. When you’re ready to open an account,
just stroll into the bank and ask a teller to help you set up a checking account. You’ll need a photo ID and some deposit money, then fill out an application form. Then make sure to opt into things like direct deposit for your paychecks, online bill pay and online banking so you can check to make sure your expenses all balance out.
2. Read and follow directions on care tags when it comes to doing your laundry
One of the first steps in laundry is sorting your clothes. Items should all have a care tag somewhere that lets you know what type of wash and drying techniques to use so you don’t ruin your clothes, or shrink them. A lot of care tags will spell it out for you, saying to “machine wash cold with like colors.” So that means don’t put your white t-shirts with the red ones unless you’re planning to dye everything pink. It’s important to read the labels because sometimes there are special instructions, too, such as “dry clean only,” “do not iron” or “handwash only.”
3. Write a thank-you note
Sure, we live in a texting, Snapchat world. But the old-fashioned written word is still a good option for a lot of things, like thank-you notes. Be sure to address the person by name, then thank them and mention why. Did you get money? A gift card? Did they do something nice for you? Include a couple of sentences in the note, maybe referencing how you’ll use the gift. Finish up with another “thanks again” sentiment before signing your name.
4. Ask for help
It’s not a sign of weakness to ask someone for help, whether it’s a teacher, parent, friend or an expert on the issue in question. Having trouble in class? Don’t be afraid to ask the teacher. Go talk to a friend if you’re struggling with something emotionally, like a break-up or just feeling down. Sometimes even just talking to someone is very helpful. Asking for help with school or work tasks, or even chores around the house that qualify as “adulting” can be beneficial in your overall health.
5. Keep a calendar
Calendars can come in many forms, especially with technology and things like a Google calendar sending alerts to smartphones. Or you can purchase a calendar book from the store to – gasp! – use a pen and paper. Wall calendars or dry-erase calendars for the fridge work well, too. Try different options out and see what works best for you.
6. Read and follow a recipe so you can cook your own meals
First, always read through the entire recipe. It will help you be prepared for the timing. Then, gather up all the kitchen utensils you’ll need for the recipe. Once you know you have the (clean) materials, then check to make sure you have all the ingredients on the list, which is usually spelled out before the directions. Being prepared will make everything easier once you take the recipe step by step to make whatever yummy dish you’ve chosen.
7. Take care of yourself when you’re sick
Whenever kids get sick, they really don’t have to do much. It’s a day off school resting on the couch, watching TV and maybe sucking down some popsicles or orange juice to help them feel better. But when mom and dad aren’t there all the time as a young adult, you have to fend for yourself when you’re sick. Get as much sleep or rest as you can, or do something relaxing, like watching Netflix or reading. Grab as much water, tea or sports drinks to keep you hydrated. Also remember that before you get sick, make sure you know some of your information like your health insurance policy number, primary doctor’s name and number or the nearest clinic to visit. That’s especially something that parents always take care of for their kids.
