So I officially turn 20 in less than a month. Which is terrifying. I’m pretty sure I’m still seven on the inside. But as I realized not long ago, time’s going to keep going whether I want it to or not, and I’ll be 20 whether I feel 20 or not.
My roommate has officially forbidden me to use the word “twentysomething” to describe myself, but she didn’t forbid the cliche “20 things to do before you turn 20” list, so I’m capitalizing on that loophole. Unfortunately, with less than a month to go, it’s not like I can backpack across Europe or get fluent in another language before the big day, so I’m making a much less daunting list – one full of things I think will improve my life and the lives of the people around me, just a little. If any of you are looking for a less intense list, or just want to spread some positivity, you can join me!
20 Things to do Before You Turn 20
1. Compliment someone every day.
I love giving compliments, but I do it sporadically – I’d love to be consistently positive and encouraging.
2. Meet new people at every opportunity.
University of Illinois has 40,000 students and I think most of them are worth knowing.
3. Eat your vegetables.
French fries are good. So, so good. But you know what else I love? Carrots. And I’m going to eat more carrots than french fries from now on.
4. Write something every day.
Something, anything, even if it’s little, even if it’s just a to-do list. I want to get words on paper every single day.
5. Stay in touch with friends.
With two of my closest friends out of the country and many more scattered at different schools, it’s easy to get disconnected from important people.
6. Swear only when you mean it.
I’m a firm believer that overusing words takes away their power, so from now on, it’s strong words for strong situations only.
7. Forgive people for the little things.
Can I forgive everyone who’s ever wronged me in a month? Probably not. But I can stop holding on to the little things that happen.
8. Stay active.
Even if “active” means 15 squats and 30 crunches right before I shower, I want to do at least a little something every day.
9. Reconnect with old friends.
I have been meaning to get a reunion dinner with the girls from my New Orleans trip all year. I miss them, and I’m determined to do it now.
10. Speak deliberately.
I have a habit of babbling just to fill the silence. My words will mean more if there’s thought behind them.
11. Be on time.
Chronically late, guilty as charged. But it’s a massive inconvenience to the people around me, and that’s not fair to them.
12. Connect with professors.
These people are incredible experts in fields that I’m interested in – I’ll never be able to network like this again!
13. Go somewhere new.
How many times have I vowed to go to events at the Union? Many. How many events at the Union have I attended? 0. Time for a change.
14. Treat yourself.
I can get steak at the dining hall without spending real money. I never have, but I can. And before I’m 20, I will.
15. Take more pictures.
With my roommate and I both sporting new cameras, this is almost practical. But I’d love to have more pictures of my life and the people in it.
16. Do your hair.
It’s amazing how good well-styled hair can make you feel. I’m trying for the week of styled hair I mentioned on my goals list.
17. Don’t let boys be mean to you.
Or anyone, really. But especially boys. We are incredible and wonderful and no one can take that away from us. I won’t even let them try.
18. Do one thing that scares you, every day.
Even if it’s just talking to the person sitting next to me or trying something new for lunch. My comfort zones are limiting me.
19. No negative self-talk.
It’s not just boys that aren’t allowed to be mean to me – I’m not allowed to be mean to me either. If I don’t love myself, why would anyone else?
20. Unlearn fear.
I’m an anxious, nervous person. Most things scare me. But I’m also capable and intelligent and innovative, when I let myself be – and those traits are all better than “scared”.
Alright. Maybe not as expansive and lofty as some 20 before 20 lists, but I think it’ll work for me. I’ll let you know how it goes! You’re all welcome to take the challenge with me. See how well you can do before February 11th! If you haven’t turned 20 yet, what are some things you want to do before then? If you’re on the other side, what are some things you wish you’d known then? What do you want to accomplish before your next milestone birthday?
