Learn to Survive

It is always shocking to me when people in their 20s tell me that they do not know how to cook or that they have never had a real job. I understand in some cultures the parents pretty much do everything for their children, even up until adulthood, but come on. To me, it is just laziness. Just because your parents don't ask for you to cook, clean or work doesn't mean you shouldn't make an attempt to do these things.

If nothing else, do chores for the experience or even to lessen your parent's burden. I spoke to one individual who told me that his mother loves doing his laundry, making his meals, and generally cleaning up after him, and as long as he continues to go to school and get good grades, she is content. Really? Lucky for me, I knew this individual's mother and the story was quite different. His mother told me that she felt that her son was lazy and that no woman in her right mind would want a man like him if he continues to be this lazy. Hmm... interesting. The problem with this scenario is that his mother has never told her son how she truly feels because she loves him too much and she enjoys being in her son's life. Take note, people! Regardless of what your parents say, deep down inside they want you to be a well-rounded person and to be able to take care of yourself.

In reality it's really not that hard, regardless if you're a male or female, to learn to survive. Learn to cook, even if you must start out small like making spaghetti. If you're that lazy, warm up some ravioli. Try to make an effort to pick up your room before you leave for the day, and if you're really motivated to act like an adult, get a job (don't rush it...go for a part time job). This way you can at least pay for things you want without asking your parents. It's almost scary to think that we have people who plan on becoming future graduates who have never even been able to survive on their own. I see people who graduate from NEIU all the time and they stick around visiting friends or looking at classes to take just to keep a foot in the door because the real world is just too scary for them.  This brings me to another point. If you graduate from college, either go to graduate school or get a job. Do something with yourself. I mean honestly, I hate when I see people saying that they are looking for a job when really their idea of looking is to wake up and log on to the computer and see if there have been any updates on their online job requests. Yes, I am well aware that many employers go through the internet to find future employees, but the old face-to-face does wonders for finding employment opportunities.  Basically, my point is this: out of all the people in the world, you have the education and in some cases the degree. Do not waste it. Too many people helped you get it for you to just throw it away because of your laziness.