Growing up–as a child you look forward to it, but once you hit a certain age (around 16 or 17) you realize being a grown up isn’t as fun as you thought it would be.
You have responsibilities and so much to worry about. You have to balance school, work, extracurricular activities, and a social life. To add to the pile of stress, college. College applications, visits, interviews, scholarships, they all decide your future. Everything is so stressful and you miss those carefree days on the playground.
As a child I looked forward to the day I turned 16. I would get my drivers license and not be as dependent on my parents. I could go to my friend’s house whenever I wanted, do anything I wanted.
As soon as I turned 16, I found out that wasn’t true at all. Now I have to run errands for my parents, take my brothers places, and tell them exactly where I’m going and when. I have no freedom.
Growing up I dreamed about the day when I had a job and could make my own money. I would have my own money to do whatever I wanted, and I could stop asking my parents for money for them just to say no. I would even play make-believe waitress or store owner.
The reality of having a job is nothing like my fantasy. It’s tiring, long and time-consuming. I have less time to hang out with my friends and more work to do. I also have to deal with grouchy people. The money isn’t all that good either. I end up spending it on food before I go to work or when I’m on break.
Honestly growing up isn’t at all what it seems. I wish I could just go back and appreciate those carefree childhood days.