Lesser Known But Important Life Skills To Learn

Sure, our high school’s life management classes may teach us how to fill out a college application, draw up a personal budget, or even how to create a resume – but are they really preparing us for the real world that’s so soon awaiting us?

Albertan students, in response to being asked about the curriculums mandatory Career and Life Management (CALM) course admitted that they feel under-prepared and even went so far as to say the course was a waste of time.

Clearly students and teachers alike feel that there are some key elements missing from these courses – these elements being the life skills needed in order for one understand, function in, and even benefit society.

Below, we’ve highlighted some of the most important life skills that every young adult should be comfortable and confident with.

Skills Everyone Should Learn

  • Preparing A Resume/Interviewing for A Job

Having a well-written resume and giving a professional and impressionable performance during an interview will be the difference between the person who gets the position and all of those who don’t.

  • How to Use A Fire Extinguisher

You most likely walk past a fire extinguisher everyday – in your office, your school, a shop or a restaurant… but do you know how to use it? Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher can literally be the difference between life and death – make sure you can aid in ensuring the former.

  • Budgeting and Credit Card Use

Everyone should be taught how to manage money properly: how to create a budget for themselves, the importance of saving money, the difference between different types of bank accounts (such as chequing, savings, and registered accounts like TFSAs and RESPs), and one of the most important – how to properly use credit and build your credit score.

  • How to Do Your Taxes

Everyone’s favourite yearly activity: paying taxes. You don’t need to be an accountant to be able to do your taxes, but understanding what forms and documents you will need to include, and knowing what credits or deductions you are eligible for is a good start.

  • Buying or Selling A Car/House/Etc.

Buying (and then perhaps selling) either a vehicle or a house are two of the largest transactions you will make in your life. There are many different aspects involved, such as dealing with lawyers, real estate agents, mortgage specialists etc. which can easily become overwhelming. Having even a basic understanding can go a long way and ensure your transaction runs smoothly.

  • How to Change A Tire

AMA may not always be an option – perhaps you’ll find yourself with a flat somewhere with no phone service, or help is hours away. Changing a tire can seem daunting but it’s actually not as hard as it seems.

Start Now

It’s never too late to learn a new skill, especially one such as the one’s above, that will truly make living your life a few notches easier.

Take a course, talk to an advisor, or simply ask a friend, colleague, or family member to help you – and remember, studying and practicing is the best way to learn and familiarize yourself with any new skill.

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