As we celebrate Independence Day, let’s grow your journey toward adult independence! Do you know how to do the following adult tasks?
Get your finances in order.
If you don’t know how to create a budget, find a free financial literacy course near you. Many non-profits offer these in a community, or Khan Academy provides an online version. It will introduce you to credit, loans, insurance, investments, banking, car buying, etc. Speaking of finances…
- Shop around for insurance. Renters or home, auto, life – there are many options out there.
- Establish credit. Be wary of signing up for new credit card offers that involve a credit check (“pre-approved” usually don’t affect your credit score). And note that interest rate. The FTC has information about how to monitor your credit.
- Start funding a retirement account. Whether it’s a 401k through your employer, or one you set up on your own or with a financial advisor, the power of compounding interest is a powerful thing. A saver who started in their 20s could have double the retirement savings as someone who started ten years later.
Meal plan, eat healthy, and grocery shop smart.
Watch the weekly grocery ads to make your meal plan each week, and buy what’s on sale. When you shop, you can typically find the healthier and more nutritious food in a grocery store on the perimeter: produce, fresh meat, and dairy. Processed and packed goods are usually found in the center aisles.
Learn basic household repairs.
If you didn’t grow up with a family who had these skills, you’ll be so happy to learn much of this is available to view free on YouTube! I learned how to clean mold out of and re-caulk a shower, do a basic toilet repair, clean a greased-up oven door, and how to change the air filter in my car.
Find a doctor and dentist.
If you go to college or live a significant distance from your hometown, you may not have easy access to the medical professionals from your childhood.
- Start by asking people you know for recommendations, or whom to avoid. Then check your health insurance to be sure the provider you are interested in is in-network, if possible.
- Set your first appointments! You may be able to do this via an online form; otherwise, pick up the phone and say, “I’m (your name) and want to become a patient in your office.” The person on the other end of the line will ask questions to get you set up. Have your health insurance card on hand when you do this.
- Set up an annual wellness exam with a general physician, and get a dental cleaning every six months.
Find a mechanic.
Just like finding a doctor, ask people you know for recommendations, and read online reviews. Regular maintenance (like oil changes) will be a great way to check out a new place so you’re not searching for someone to help if a larger mechanical problem comes up.
Find community.
Loneliness is the new health epidemic, so make some in-person connections. Seek out people with similar hobbies. For example, if you like to be active, ask a local bike shop about biking groups or rides. Join a faith-based community. Find a board gaming group by searching a social media platform.
In no time, you’ll be the expert in your friend group, someone everyone looks up to because of the confidence you have gained in your independence!
By Kristin Ageton