Throughout the course of your life, you will learn many skills — some will be useful to you and some you might not use more than once.
However, there are some skills that are necessary to learn as you enter your adult life because they will benefit you for many years to come.
• How to budget. If you manage a monthly budget, you are among the minority of people who know how much money they have available to spend each month. Knowing what is coming in and what is going out is necessary to achieve certain financial goals in life. For example, if you are saving for college or planning to open your own business, you will need to know how much money you have available to put toward those goals. Money might not buy happiness, but financial stability can provide you with the freedom you need to pursue the life you want.
• How to cook. While no one expects you to be the next star on the Cooking Channel, it is wise to learn to make one or two signature dishes. Not only will you impress your family and friends at your next dinner party, but cooking at home tends to be more affordable and is generally healthier because you have control over the ingredients and cooking methods.
• How to change a flat tire. Flat tires are one of the most common roadway mishaps that cause vehicles, and their passengers, to be stranded. Save yourself hours of time and potentially hundreds of dollars in towing costs and mechanic fees by learning how to change your own tires. With the right tools and a little knowledge, the average person can learn to change a tire in no time. Check out area parts stores, such as Napa Auto Parts in Reisterstown or Salvo Auto Parts in Owings Mills, to put together a small toolkit that can be kept in your vehicle for emergency purposes.
• How to check a credit score. Aside from your Social Security number — and maybe your age — a credit score is probably the single most important identifying number in an adult's life. A healthy credit score can actually help save you money by guaranteeing lower interest rates and more-favorable loan agreements. So it is important that you not only know how to obtain your credit report and score, but that you know how to understand them, as well. By law, you are given one free credit report per year from the three credit reporting agencies — but you must request your credit score separately — and it is recommended that your report be reviewed on at least an annual basis. You can view your free credit report by visiting sites like http://www.annualcreditreport.com or http://www.freecreditreport.com.
• How to operate a computer. Twenty or so years ago, most systems were still operated manually by using paper and pen. Flash forward to today, and it is hard to deny the presence of technology in our lives. Computers and mini-computing devices such as smartphones have become the norm in everyday life, and most of us can't imagine a life without their conveniences. Not to mention that the Internet has grown to become the world's largest collective source of information on just about any topic known to man. Learning to successfully operate a computer can open doors for an individual and create opportunities he or she might not have had.
• How to swim. Learning to swim doesn't sound like a critical life skill but it actually can save your life or the life of a loved one. Even those who don't participate in water sports have opportunities to be near water — especially if you are a parent. For swimming lessons, check out the JCC of Greater Baltimore in Owings Mills or Glyndon Swim Club in Glyndon.
• How to administer first aid. It is not uncommon for life-threatening accidents to happen in the home. From paint cans to prescription medicine, potential hazards are plentiful. Having these skills can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. You can obtain a certification at EnjoyCPR Safety Training, in Owings Mills, or receive an online certification through http://www.firstaidweb.com.
• How to garden. Learning how to grow and maintain a garden is beneficial for many reasons. Not only will you learn to provide a sustainable food source for your family, but growing your own fruits and vegetables reduces your dependence on grocery stores and provides a healthier alternative to packaged and processed foods. Plus, gardening is also known to be a great stress reliever. Visit area nurseries such a Glyndon Gardens or Simonds Nursery, both in Reisterstown, for supplies — and advice — to get your garden started.
By learning these essential life skills, you will be prepared for both everyday living and life's everyday challenges.
Danielle Moser is a Reisterstown resident and can be reached via email at threepeasservices@gmail.com.
