Millennials are one of the most misunderstood generations in today's society. While millennials are often considered entitled by older generations, the millennial generation is full of young people who want to make a change. From creating and using innovative technology to fighting for equality, this group of young adults has a lot going for them. And while millennials have certainly done some impressive things over the years, like drinking 159.6 million cases of wine in 2015, a new year means new opportunities. So we've compiled a list of nine things all millennials should do -- or at least consider doing -- in 2019.
1. Reduce your digital time:
It's no secret that millennials live and breathe for their phones. After all, you did grow up with technology, so it was only expected. So while mobile commerce continues to account for 30% of all U.S. e-commerce, why don't you take a break from the digital world? Limiting your online time each day can help you feel happier and less stressed -- and it can give your scrolling thumb a break.
2. Get your finances in order:
Sticking to a budget can be difficult at any age, but especially for millennials. With a not-so-great economy and bottomless mimosas at brunch, many millennials don't have their finances in order. Well, now is the time to do so. Using helpful budgeting apps can help young adults achieve their financial goals by the end of the year.
3. Take a trip to Hogwarts:
Harry Potter is one of the more well-known and loved characters among millennials. And if you're a Potterhead, you should treat yourself to a trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios. It's important to travel while you're young and able, and there's no better place to take a trip to.
4. Learn something new:
While this may seem broad, it's important to always continue learning. Learning a new skill, whether it's painting, boxing, or skiing, can help break you out of your comfort zone. If you're one of the 54% of millennials who eat out at least three times each week, according to a Bankrate survey, consider taking a cooking class so you can make food at home.
5. Volunteer for an organization:
With being a part of one of the most pro-change generations, you're bound to have an organization or movement you support. Instead of supporting from the sidelines, you should get involved. Volunteering is a great way to make a change and invest your time into something that really matters.
6. Buy a house:
Contrary to popular belief, millennials do buy houses. In fact, millennials continue to make up one of the largest home-buying groups. So, if you're one of the millennials who have their finances in order, why not buy a house? More and more millennials are making their HGTV dreams reality and you can too.
7. Get a tattoo or piercing:
With about 45 million Americans having at least one tattoo, tattoos have certainly become less taboo in today's culture. So if you've been thinking about getting some ink or a less permanent body modification like a piercing, 2019 is the year to do it. Self-expression comes in many forms, including tattoos and piercings.
8. Face one of your fears:
Everyone has something they're afraid of: spiders, heights, commitment, you name it, someone is afraid of it. But you shouldn't let your fears control your life. Rather than hiding and letting your fears consume you, now is the time to face them. Even if it's a baby step, like sitting beside the ocean when you have a fear of drowning, facing your fears will only make you stronger.
9. Make in-person friends:
It's easy to make friends online, especially with social media. But you should also take the time to work on your in-person social life. You don't need to use your phone to make friends and build relationships. So take a step out of your comfort zone and take the time to build some new friendships without a digital barrier.
Being a young adult is difficult, but setting goals can make navigating life a little bit easier. So consider adding a few, or all, of these ideas to your 2019 Bucket List for another great year.
