Getting older brings out different emotions for everyone. Some reflect on things they haven’t accomplished yet. But as another birthday approaches, I am looking at all the things that I have accomplished.

If I had to face my eighteen-year-old self, she would not believe the things that I’m doing. And I’m not talking about the big adventures, like hiking the entire Appalachian Trail or getting married. (Although those would surprise her). I’m referring to the little “adult” things. The everyday moments that truly show my growth.

1. Going To Bed At A Consistent Hour

Teenage Adele would be shocked to hear that I am nailing the whole “not being able to sleep” thing. Yes, I still struggle with it, but I’ve taken charge of my sleep care more than ever. I am now the kind of person who goes to bed at the same time. Unless it’s a special occasion, I will start getting ready for bed by 10 PM and be in bed by 11. Yeah, Adele, I know I used to stay up until 2 AM in high school. But we’re not that person anymore. You have a job that requires a consistent wake-up time. And yes, you like your job.

2. A Bedtime Routine

Speaking of sleep, I have to mention the new, awesome before-bed routine. Believe it or not, it exists, and we never miss it. Not only am I brushing my teeth in the morning, but I’m also brushing at night too. Plus, because both the dentist and Dad put the fear of God in me, I’m flossing. Every night. Once the teeth are done, it’s time for the skin routine. Gone are the days of going to bed with makeup still on. No ma’am. I am washing my face and then putting on toner. It’s all topped off with a women’s multivitamin pill and melatonin. All of this sounds lame. But my skin and my teeth have never been healthier. Deal with it.

3. A Morning Routine

What is with all of the routines??? You can’t be that surprised, Adele. You are Type A all the way.

First and foremost, you drink coffee now. I know that at one point, you swore you wouldn’t, but it happened. You are drinking coffee, and you are grinding your own beans. Thank Mom for that. Second, you can’t live without breakfast. Not a shocker, but what might surprise you is that you enjoy cooking it. No more cereal or drive-through stuff. I’m talking poached eggs and oatmeal. You can cook fancy things, and they taste good. Own it.

4. Financial Responsibility

Remember that one time, right before college, when you spent $300 on clothes from Delia’s? And Mom got so upset, and you didn’t know why? You know why now. You have a respectable savings account, a budget plan, and you don’t like to impulse buy. I’m not going to lie, impulse purchases still happen. But when you do, it’s on fancy food and drink because did I mention? You are fancy now. And taking yourself out for dinner is the epitome of self-care. But after you take yourself out, you make sure to stay in and cook for the rest of the week. It’s all about balance.

5. It Gets Easier

Just kidding! Life never gets easier. But it is easier for you to accept that fact. And in a way, that makes it easier. Life will constantly be challenging you. It’s exhausting and never-ending. Every day will bring a new lesson. Sometimes, you don’t learn anything from that lesson. But life will make sure to repeat it until you understand. You will always be learning. You will always be messing up. But it’s never the end of the world, even when it seems like it. You’re not dead yet.

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