LIFE

Being a teenager can get pretty stressful, so you may find yourself counting down the days ‘til you’re past these crazy days. If we can offer you *any* advice, it's this: don't do that. Trust, you’ve got some amazing times ahead of you.

Why not get those good times rolling with this bucket list of things to do before you turn 18? Read on for all the fun!

1. Learn how to drive.

Learning to drive and getting your license will give you that freedom you've always wanted. Be sure to drive safely!

2. See your favorite band in concert.

Nothing really tops rocking out to your favorite band live in person. Whether you hit up a local show or a major music festival, you’ll have the time of your life, no doubt. (Can't go to a concert IRL rn? Plan a trip for the future while you watch old concert vids on YouTube!)

3. Say yes to something that scares you.

Now is the time to break out of that comfort zone. Forget your fears and try something totally new (as long as it’s safe and will keep you out of trouble, of course).

4. Cook an entire meal by yourself.

We’re not just talking a bowl of cereal or a frozen pizza. Follow a recipe from start to finish and you may be blown away by your own culinary skills. And if it’s a #fail? Keep trying! Even the best chefs don’t always hit it out of the park the first time around.

5. Go on a social-media detox.

Don't let social media take over your life. Take a break from it, whether it be a day or a week, and live life in the moment.

6. Find your style.

Not quite sure if your style vibe is totally trendy, boho glam or classically chic? Try out a bunch of different looks and discover your signature style.

7. Apply to your dream college.

Dream big! Start looking at schools that offer majors that motivate you or are in an ideal location. If you have a solid list at the ready, you’ll be good to go once application time rolls around.

8. Pull an all-nighter.

Nope, not the studying kind. Have all of your besties over and try to see how late you can stay up talking and having fun. It’ll be a night (and morning!) that you won’t forget.

9. Do something different with your hair.

Always wanted purple streaks? Go for it! Or maybe you want to chop your long locks or try a totally different style. And remember...it’ll always grow out!

10. Get a job.

Your very first job will give you a great feeling of independence and experience for your future. And of course there’s the bonus of getting paid!

11. Host a party.

Have a big birthday coming up? Or maybe you just need an excuse to party? Pick a fun theme (French-themed fête, anyone?) and get to planning. Zoom parties count too, ofc!

12. Find a workout routine you like and stick with it.

via GIPHY

Try different classes at your gym or check out some videos online. Experiment with various workouts until you find one you’re obsessed with—or keep switching it up. Whatever works to keep you motivated!

13. Travel outside of your home state.

Explore! Take some time to adventure out and see different things in this world. Whether you're taking a road trip with your fam or visiting your camp bestie, traveling is sure to open your mind to new experiences.

14. Decorate your room exactly how you want it.

Room makeovers are always fun. Get rid of the same color paint you've had on your walls since you were a kid and mix it up a bit.

15. Open a savings account and start saving money.

Start stashing away those cents. One year from now, you'll be glad you starting saving when you did.

16. Go to a museum for fun.

There's so much art and history to be seen! Get a group of friends together and hit a famous museum for a dose of culture (or check out a local exhibit if you can't travel far).

17. Get rid of old clothes.

Go through your clothes and pick out stuff that you haven’t worn in a year or more. Make a pile to donate to charity, sell on Depop or give to friends. Bonus: You'll make more room in your closet.

18. Volunteer.

Helping others in your community will make both you and those you are helping feel so much better. 

Have you checked off anything on the list yet? Let us know on Twitter @girlslifemag!

Photo credit: Giphy

by Keri Luise | 9/20/2020