20 Life-Saving Steps to Take After Graduation

You know that one class that kicked your butt (or 5)? Burn them textbooks.

Don't feel pressure to have a job already lined up. Many employers expect as much as a gap year between graduation and a "real" job.

Listen to your parents--but not too much. They know what they're talking about but at a certain point you know what's best for yourself.

Take a budgeting class and fill up your savings.

Never stop learning. Whether it's community courses, cooking classes or YouTube tutorials, it'll keep your mind fresh.

Don't grow up too fast. This is the first time in your life you are your own person but don't forget to enjoy your youth.

Make new friends. College isn't the last time you'll meet new people as long as you have an open mind.

Travel, travel, travel! Before you're locked down by a couple of kids and a mortgage.

Go to the doctor- you're getting old now so you've got to keep an eye on dat prostate.

Make sure you're happy being single before you get married.

Make a habit of looking fear in the face. Try something that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

Stop eating junk food every night. Your metabolism isn't what it used to be.

Learn to love reading again and try taking on a new book every month.

You don't need new things. Learn to thrift, get a used car, and save your money for the important stuff.

Spend time with your Grandparents. Learn from them. Hear their stories.

Find somewhere to volunteer consistently.

Start a journal. You'll appreciate being able to look back at this exciting time in your life.

Explore your city as a full-fledged adult.

Put your phone away when you are with friends and family.

But most of all, break the rules. You don't have to follow what anyone is telling you to do with your life. Be smart and do what makes you happy.