Getting cold feet is not just for marriage. There are so many other huge milestones in life that make our palms sweat and send us into a full-out panic. Below are a few of many.
Higher education
This is probably the first major milestone that many reach where we experience some sort of cold-feet. After high school graduation, we’re really left with the big “what next.” Many graduates are kicked into high-gear trying to navigate their way through life. Deciding to pursue higher education, trade school or leap right into the workforce require a huge commitment. It takes lots of time, money and resources so an urgency must very well be present. In college (and in life), no one will be there pushing you out of bed to head to class or to complete your assignments. It’s all on YOU. This is where all of your independence will be put to the test.
Voting
I don’t know about you, but I was so nervous my first time voting. I thought to myself, “Are they sure they want to allow ME to vote?!” I worried that I would accidentally select the wrong candidate on the monitor, etc. It’s an exciting time but also an emotional rollercoaster in seeing how it all pans out.
Buying a car
This is very much like buying a home but only a slightly less intrusive process. It’s important to do your homework in shopping around for the best deals while also ensuring that the safety requirements are met. My very first car was a clunker, but I paid for it upfront and rode it until the wheels fell off. By the time I was ready for a real deal purchase on a newer model, I was so experienced in mechanical issues and more! Having a car note every month was what I needed to get used to. Another great lesson is to never take on more than you can afford. I wanted a luxury car but settled for something more modest that would get me from point A to point B safely. My bank account wasn’t having it! Don’t get caught up in all the add-ons that amount to even more money out of pocket. And don’t forget to factor in the cost of auto insurance!
Buying a house
This literally feels like you are signing your life away and is a colossal financial commitment. Pack your patience because it will be a long, bumpy ride. You may choose to explore properties on your own or may enlist the help of a realtor. No matter what, do your due diligence. Have those receipts pulled and ensure you are not paying more than what the home is worth. It will feel as though the financial institutions are being intrusive by going through all your bank statements, pay stubs and credit history, but it is all part of the long process. There is a lot of money on the line! You may get into a little bit of a bidding war on a property, but don’t get discouraged. There is a perfect home out there just for you.
Entrepreneurship
Not everyone wishes to become a sole entrepreneur off the bat; but it could become a goal later down the line for one reason or another. It can be downright scary to go from having job security, a steady paycheck and health insurance coverage to full-out becoming your own boss. But it CAN be done! So if you’re still holding down a full-time job while in pursuit of full-time entrepreneurship, just know that you will be a ball of happy, sad, scared, excited nerves no matter how deep in the game you are.
Marriage
We knew this one was coming. Marriage is the commitment to spend the rest of your life with your partner. As with anything, marriage will have its ups and downs, but it’s all in how much time and commitment you put into it. Long after the glitz and glam of a wedding is the actual marriage.
Children
Becoming a new parent is enough to make anyone’s palms sweat! It is seriously life-changing in every way. You will find yourself thinking twice about everything you do and say, as well as where you go. Your little companion(s) will be in tow every step of the way and pretty soon your ‘pick up and go’ way of life will become a thing of the past!
What are some commitments you have made or are considering making that make you a bit nervous? Are you considering relocating, switching careers or starting a healthy lifestyle journey? Let us know in the comments below!
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