Ask The Readers: This 18-year-old wants to know, what advice would you give your younger self?
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Dear Grace,
As an 18-year-old who is getting out of high school, what is some advice you would give to me, that would put me 5 steps ahead? I don’t have a lot of older people in my life, and I’m nervous about this big change and being “officially an adult.” What would you tell your younger self that might help me?
– Excited, Nervous & Timid from Texas
Dear Timid from Texas,
Ask The Readers is your regular chance to grab the mic and give advice to other readers in our community. Each piece of advice we share comes from a different thoughtful reader. Keep an eye out for more juicy questions and answers!
It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous stepping into the “officially adult” world! It’s a big change, and everyone navigates it differently. Here’s what women from across the country had to say to help put you five steps ahead:
Stay true to yourself and pursue your interests.
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to know everything. Explore your passions, try out new opportunities, and follow your heart. Enjoy it!
- “First off, congratulations! You’re at a wonderful time in your life when everything feels possible. Enjoy the excitement. Second, I’d probably tell myself and you not to worry about what’s to come. Things are never set in stone. Do the things that bring you joy in life and don’t back down from a challenge.”
- “I would have an honest talk with myself. Are you interested in college? If so, what career path? Do you want skills training, employment, or the military? Some things only you can answer…be honest with yourself and open-minded. If I could do it over again, I would go straight to graduate school or professional school after undergraduate graduation. Follow your heart and don’t let other people’s fears of life hold you hostage.”
- “Understand that an 18-year-old doesn’t have all the answers. Don’t put unrealistic expectations upon yourself. Follow your heart and passion for a career path. I suggest you do something you enjoy doing every day. If it takes you working to afford continued education, then make it work and do both. Don’t give up. Be confident that you can succeed!”
Learn how to budget and save NOW.
So many readers wrote in with financial tips. Learning financial literacy is HARD, and the sooner you start, the better off you’ll be.
- “I wish I had told my younger self to master basic finances faster. You should go beyond just tracking expenses. Learn the basics of budgeting (there are tons of free apps and templates), understand credit scores, and how they work (especially before taking on debt), and even start exploring the idea of saving a little bit from every bit of income you get, even if it feels small. Even $5 or $10 a week adds up over time. Think of it as building a safety net and future freedom. You got this!”
- “Do NOT sign up for that credit card with the $10,000 limit. Find a basic, intro credit card, and use it for things you already need, like gas, school supplies, or food. Things that you would normally pay for with your debit card. Once the charge hits your account, turn right around and pay it off. This will help you establish and build credit. IF YOU CAN HELP IT, try not to take out student loans. I promise it is not worth the heartache. Apply for scholarships and grants, however you can.”
- “I would tell my younger self to go to college or trade school. Focus on finding a career that you are passionate about that provides you with stability. Once you have a little money, learn how to save and invest.”
- “Learn everything you can about money management and credit. Always be independent. A lady must have a car, a job, and a bank account. Stay focused!”
Lastly, find your people.
The relationships you create now could last decades! Push yourself to meet people who share your values and put in the work to stay close.
- “First suggestion is to put yourself out there. Find a university-sanctioned club or social group. This will help you to meet new people. If there are social activities, like pep rallies or mixers, take a leap and attend them. These are some of the best ways to meet people. Join a study group, that way you have someone to bond with over the hard-ass psych teacher who thinks their class is the hardest and most important (yes, I had her too).”
- “Your relationships matter. Friends, classmates, neighbors, colleagues. When you’re starting out, you will need references for interviews, rentals, scholarship applications, and more. Make sure to establish and maintain these relationships, especially with women. Men are good, but maintaining healthy, strong, long-term relationships with women really makes a world of difference. Good luck! I certainly wish you well and hope this helps!”
- “You become the type of person with whom you associate. Pick your friends wisely!”
There is no one right way to navigate early adulthood. Change is often a little scary, but it can be exciting too! You are stepping into a new chapter—one where you have more responsibilities, but also more ownership over your own life. And if you ever need support again, we’re here for you!
Love,
Grace and the Readers
