When Do Kids Become Adults? A Million-Dollar Question (Or at Least a Thousand-Dollar Therapy Session)
So, you've finally managed to convince your kid to take out the trash without being bribed with video game currency. You're thinking, "Nailed it! Adulthood unlocked!" But hold your horses, champ. The journey from "please, can I have a snack?" to "please, can I have a mortgage?" is a marathon, not a sprint.
The Age-Old Question (Literally)
People have been pondering this enigma since, well, forever. Is it when you can legally drink? When you stop asking your parents for money? Or when you realize that adulting is basically just glorified babysitting for yourself? The New York Times, ever the beacon of wisdom and enlightenment, has also waded into these murky waters.
They've talked about how society's expectations of adulthood have shifted. Remember when 18 meant you were automatically a grown-up? Yeah, those were simpler times. Now, it's more like, "You're 30? Cool, can you explain cryptocurrency to me?"
The Signs of Adulthood (Or Lack Thereof)
Let's be honest, there's no definitive checklist. But here are a few potential indicators:
- You can cook something other than ramen and toast. Bonus points if you can do it without setting off the smoke alarm.
- You own more than five pairs of socks that match. And you know where they are.
- You've had a serious conversation about retirement plans. Or at least thought about it while staring blankly at your savings account.
- You can assemble IKEA furniture without weeping. Or threatening to return it and buy pre-assembled stuff.
The Real Truth
The truth is, adulthood is a state of mind. It's about taking responsibility for your life, making tough decisions, and learning to adult (it's a verb now). There's no magic age when it happens. Some people feel like adults at 22, others at 42, and some never really do. And that's okay!
Remember: Adulting is hard. It's okay to mess up. It's okay to ask for help. And it's definitely okay to order takeout on a Tuesday.
How To... Adulting Edition
- How to balance a checkbook: Use an app. Just kidding (kind of).
- How to deal with adult acne: Consult a dermatologist.
- How to have a serious conversation: Be honest, be respectful, and listen more than you talk.
- How to adult: Fake it 'til you make it. Or just embrace the chaos and enjoy the ride.
- How to survive your parents' visit: Stock up on wine and earplugs.