You Know You’re an Adult When…

As people grow older, their priorities and life focus shift. Things that were once a top priority are no longer as important, and new things take their place. This is a natural progression and one that many people will recognize as they enter their third decade of life. If you are wondering whether you have crossed over into the next stage of adulthood, here are a few signs that may indicate that you have.

1) A Good Night’s Sleep Is More Valuable Than a Crazy Night Out

When you were in your early twenties, the best night of your life was probably the one that involved staying out until the early hours of the morning, dancing with your friends and strangers, and drinking copious amounts of alcohol. But as you grow older, you start to appreciate the value of a good night’s sleep. You understand that getting a full eight hours of sleep can make the difference between feeling energized and happy versus feeling tired and irritable.

2) Checking Everything Off Your To-Do List Gives You a Thrill

In your younger years, you might have found joy in leaving things to the last minute and then scrambling to get them done. But now, you take pride in checking things off your to-do list, and the feeling of accomplishment that comes with it. You have come to realize that being organized and efficient can make your life easier.

3) You Have Become an Early Riser

Remember the days when you would sleep in until noon and still feel like you had not slept enough? Well, those days are long gone. As you grow older, you start to understand the value of time and the importance of getting an early start to the day. You also understand that your body needs a good rhythm to function properly.

4) Business Casual Outfits Are the New Normal

Gone are the days of wearing shorts and flip-flops to class or work. You have now embraced the world of business casual, where you know how to dress appropriately for the occasion. You have come to appreciate the significance of a well-fitted suit and dress shoes.

5) Loyalty Cards and Couponing Have Become a Way of Life

Gone are the days of mindlessly spending your money on random things; you have now begun to value your hard-earned cash. You have set up a system to save more money, which includes using loyalty cards and coupons. You know that every penny saved can be put towards something more meaningful.

6) HomeGoods Is Your New Happy Place

Stores like HomeGoods, which once seemed unappealing and boring, now capture your interest and imagination. You have developed a keen eye for interior design and appreciate the value of buying quality items for your home. You realize that your home is a reflection of yourself, and everything you put into it counts.

7) Practical Gifts Are Your New Favorite

When you were younger, you may have looked forward to receiving gifts such as jewelry or concert tickets. Now, you appreciate practical gifts such as a vacuum or a crock-pot. You have come to understand that these types of gifts will last much longer and contribute more to your overall well-being.

8) The Loss of a Sharpie Pen Is Now a Major Issue

When your beloved Sharpie pens or Post-its go missing from your desk, you feel immense anger and frustration. You have developed a system of organization and efficiency and anything that disrupts it feels like an attack on your well-being.

9) Movies at Home Have Become the New Party Scene

The idea of spending a night out drinking and partying seems less attractive compared to the comfort of your own couch. You now enjoy having friends over for a movie night, complete with popcorn and drinks.

10) Catching Up on Netflix Shows Is More Important Than Weekend FOMO

You no longer worry about the fear of missing out on social events or parties. Instead, you prefer to catch up on all those Netflix shows you have been meaning to watch.

In conclusion, crossing over to the next stage of adulthood can be both exciting and daunting. But as you grow older, you realize that you don’t have to cling to your past and that the future holds its own joys and opportunities. These signs of maturity are just a few examples of how your priorities and interests can shift over time, and how you can embrace this change with grace and confidence.