Your teen years might be the best years of your life, but you may also look forward to adulthood. You can attend college and enjoy a little bit of independence and possibly move into your own place. Becoming a young adult means taking on new responsibilities – so it's important to enjoy your youth while you can. Here's a look at seven things everyone should do before they hit 20.
Ask your parents to borrow the car for a weekend, get with a couple of friends, pack your bags and hit the open road. You don't have to go far, maybe three or four hours from home. Stop at random towns, cities and landmarks on the way to your destination and do a little exploring. For safety reasons, just make sure you stay near well-lit, touristy areas.
As a young person I used to feel sorry for people dining alone. Now that I'm older, I realize this is an empowering choice. If you want to get out the house but your friends are busy, have a date night with yourself. Go to the movies or a restaurant alone. Learn how to rely on yourself for fun and entertainment.
Cooking might seem boring, but if you learn how to prepare your favorite meals now, you'll not only save a ton of money on entertainment, you'll be more self-sufficient when you're ready to move out your parents' house. Eating Ramen noodles and box macaroni and cheese gets old after a few weeks.
Your weekly allowance may not provide the change you need to enjoy your youth. Stop relying on your parents for money and consider different ways to earn a buck. You can get a part-time job, or make your own income by exploring your entrepreneurial side - babysitting, starting a lawn care service, etc.
Money and personal finances might be the last thing on your mind, but before you hit 20, make sure you establish a relationship with a bank or credit union. If you're in your late teens, it's safe to say you've outgrown the piggy bank. It's time to take your money to the next level with a real savings account.
You only live once, and your youthful days are short-lived. After college, marriage and kids, it becomes harder to be adventurous. Create a bucket list of things you want to do, and resolve to do at least one before you hit 20. This might include participating in a flash mob, going skydiving or white water rafting.
I know, this is easier said than done. But rather than let fear paralyze you, conquer it. Are you afraid of snakes? Go to a living museum or a snake exhibit and see if you can touch one of these slithering creatures. Or if you're afraid of water, learn how to swim.
This is the time to enjoy your freedom. These years can fly by quick, and although it may seem as if you have a lifetime to do things on your bucket list, it becomes harder as your life becomes more hectic. What are other things to do before 20.