24 Things You Need to Do in Your First 24 Years

Today is my birthday!! Somehow it's already September, and somehow I'm already 24! Don't really know how either happened, but here we are! ;) I think most of us like to make goals for each year and aim to grow within every 365 days before turning another year older, but I like to judge every year based on the positives that happened rather than harp on the goals I may not have reached. And if anything, try to figure out what made it hard to accomplish something that was on my list. That's what made me decide to put together this list of the 24 things you need to do for yourself in your first 24 years, in honor of turning 24! I've been fortunate to do and see a lot so far in my life and I know there's a lot more on my list, but these are experiences I think everyone should have in their 20s!
1. Buy something expensive that you've always wanted. Make that splurge purchase - chances are you've been saving, and there's no better time to make that purchase. You deserve it!

2. Create a list of travel goals and have a plan to get started. See as many places as you can, and document it ALL.

3. Let go of grudges you're holding. You don't have to forget, but let it go and realize there's so many more important things to worry and care about. It'll always be a work in progress, but you have to start somewhere.

4. Invest in something. This is the perfect time to go through your finances and figure out exactly how to get to where you want to be.

5. Host a dinner party. It's a lot of fun, and makes you feel adult AF. ;)

6. Learn to wake up more grateful each and every morning

7. Get rid of one bad habit. Figure out what it is, why you do it, and how to get rid of it. You'll feel freed!

8. Take some sort of monthly challenge. Whether it's a no-spend month, a 30 day cleanse/detox or something completely different, do it.

9. Always make time to reflect on the good, the bad and what you're hopeful of and for.

10. Do something spontaneous, even for you - no matter how uncomfortable it makes you. Such a rewarding feeling!

11. Watch the sunrise - or sunset - on the beach. There are very few things that are more relaxing, eye opening and enjoyable!

12. Learn how to say "no". You don't have to please everyone!

13. Have a signature cocktail. Extra? Totally. Worth it? Definitely. ;)

14. Find a really great skincare routine that you love and are consistent with; you aren't getting any younger girlfriends! ;)

15. Have a plan to re-pay your student loans. This one is by NO means fun or exciting, but it's a necessity and to prevent racking up a ton of interest and/or paying for ever and ever, make a legitimate plan on how and when you'll pay them off by. I'm getting so close to being done! (although my wallet cries every payment I make)

16. Learn how to do your taxes. This isn't at all fun, but it is necessary!

17. Travel solo! I've only semi-completed this in flying by myself (still kinda counts right? ;) but I do really want to take a solo-trip. I think it's one of those things you can do in your 20s and love it, learn from it and remember it for the rest of your life.

18. Have a true hobby - something you love to do and can go to when you're stressed, bored, or just need a well deserved break.

19. Learn another language. Practical for real-world things, but also really rewarding if you're able to go to a different country and speak to the people there in their language! Foreign languages are also really, really beautiful. You won't regret being bilingual!

20. Be content and comfortable with your job. No more just working to make money - love what you do!

21. Stop relying on other people, and know that you are capable of anything that you set your mind to. You can trust other people, but no one as much as you do yourself.

22. Make and meet a fitness goal. Whether it's lose 5 pounds, 20 pounds, or just learn to live a healthier lifestyle, get it in check and stick to it. It's amazing how much better you feel inside and out when you live healthier!

23. Take on a side hustle. Something you really love to do and make a little extra $$$ with!

24. Never settle. Always strive for more, be the best you can be and take chances. Realize you're exactly where you should be and don't ever forget it!

XOXO -A