There are a ton of practical life skills to know that aren’t often taught anymore. There are students, graduates, and young professionals–and even some adults–who have missed out on learning some basic life skills. (I’m guilty in this too, I don’t know how to sew or change a tire to save my life). Whether by taking a home ec class, watching YouTube tutorials, reading blogs, or asking someone for help, there are quite a few life skills to know before you or your student should learn before heading off to college.
Home Care
Flickr user Angel N
How to…
- Sew a button onto something
- Clean carpets, windows, toilets, countertops, etc.
- Do laundry
- Iron clothes
Life Management
Flickr user 401(k) 2012
How to…
- Organize important documents, files, papers, etc.
- Address a letter / package
- Create and maintain a budget
- Hunt for apartments
- Create appointments
- Read legal documents like leases, healthcare things, and phone contracts
- Search for jobs
- Responsibly use a credit card
Transportation
Flickr user Michael Kappel
How to…
- Change a tire
- Jumpstart a car
- Order a taxi / Uber
- Utilize public transportation
- Read a map
- Arrange bus and air travel
Personal Stuff
Flickr user Sienna College
How to…
- Balance class, work, and social life
- Keep in touch with friends and family
- Handle conflict
- Apologize
- Cook multiple meals
- Brew coffee/tea
- Be punctual
- Deal with emergencies
- Perform basic first aid
- Defend yourself
- Stay in shape
Professional Stuff
Flickr user World Relief Spokane
How to…
- Write a professional email/letter
- Conduct yourself in an interview
- Build a business wardrobe
- Write thank-you notes to bosses/interviewers
- Create a resume
- Have a good handshake (yes, seriously, this is very important)
Student Stuff
Flickr user Terry Madeley
How to…
- Write an essay
- Form good study habits
- Write an email to a professor/advisor
- File for financial aid
- Take good notes
- Research for papers
- Create your class schedule
- Navigate a computer
- Use a library
And there you have it! As their name would suggest, life skills will help you for as long as you live, but it’s important to start learning and perfecting these skills as young as possible.
