10 Major Milestones That Are Just As Important As Getting Married

10 Major Milestones That Are Just As Important As Getting Married ©iStock/AmmentorpDK

Usually around your mid to late twenties, you start to notice that everyone is settling down and getting married. Walking down the aisle is a huge deal, no argument there, but it’s not the be all, end all. Many women believe that once they’re married, they’ve reached the pinnacle of everything life has to offer – after all, tying the knot is the goal many of us are raised to have. In fact, no matter how wonderful and fulfilling your relationship is, there are plenty of other milestones in your life that are just as important as exchanging vows.

  1. Graduating high school. This may seem like no big deal compared to a lot of other milestones, but graduating high school is the first step towards adulthood. There are plenty of people in the world that never do it, so it’s something to be proud of.
  2. Graduating college. Even fewer people have the opportunity and motivation to get a college degree. These days, it seems like something everyone does, but that shouldn’t take away from the fact that you worked hard, and you deserve credit for it.
  3. Getting your first adult job. No more flipping burgers or slaving away in retail for you. The first full time (with benefits!) position you snag is a big deal, and it’s only the first of many career milestones you’re sure to experience along the way.
  4. Getting your first pet. If you’ve always wanted dog but could never have one because your dad was allergic, finally being able to get one will be even more exciting. You’re now responsible for another life, and that’s a pretty big deal.
  5. Moving out of your parents’ house. Whether you left the second you turned 18, or you stuck around as long as you could for your mom’s cooking and the free laundry, when you finally leave the nest for good, it feels like the beginning of a new life.
  6. Traveling to that one city/country you always wanted to go. Saving up the money, making all the plans, and then actually following through on something you’ve wanted to do for a long time is a huge accomplishment. Not to mention, your first big trip often leads to many more.
  7. Your first big promotion. Getting that confirmation that all your hard work is appreciated is a great feeling. The day you’re no longer considered “entry-level” will mark a whole new era in your career.
  8. Making a commitment to another person. Whether that means you get married or not, deciding you want to be with one person for the rest of your life is a way bigger deal than having the perfect centerpieces and choosing the right DJ.
  9. Buying a house. Buying property might not be something everyone wants to do, but if you have the money for it, it’s always a great investment. Having a place that’s all your own has a way of really making you feel like you’ve got your act together.
  10. Having a child. Hands down, the biggest milestone in a lot of people’s lives is the day they have their first child. Bringing a new life into the world will change your perspective, priorities, and hopefully transform your life for the better.
By day, Courtney is a digital marketing copywriter living in Toronto, Canada. By night, she's a freelance lifestyle writer who, in addition to Bolde.com, contributes regularly to AmongMen.ca, IN Magazine, and SheBlogs Canada. Want to chat about relationships, Stephen King or your favorite true crime podcast/documentary/book? She's on Twitter @courtooo.
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