As you get older, it becomes increasingly clear that some things in life are a must. As you approach your thirties, you might begin to feel that it’s time to grow up. You have aspirations — developing your career, finding a life-partner, maybe even owning a home — and you can’t do that when you’re stuck in the mindset of a college kid. As such, it’s important to take stock of where you are and where you want to be and then work to actualize those goals.
Starting any new habit is tough, but sometimes the things you own go a long way in helping to create the lifestyle you want to have. It’s like the saying goes, dress for the job you want and not the job you have. Here are five things every guy should own by the time they hit 30 and as they plan the next steps in life.
1. A Sturdy Phone Case
When you were in high school or college, it was cool to show how much you “didn’t care” about walking around with a phone with a cracked screen. However, what was unique back in undergrad is now a sign that you either don’t care about your personal belongings or don’t have enough money to properly care for them. Either way, that’s a big no for someone about to turn 30, so if you’re still walking around without a phone case, it’s time to get yourself one.
Just because you purchase a phone case doesn’t mean it can’t communicate a strong character. For example, Limited77 is a company that specializes in unique wooden cell phone cases which are strong enough to protect your smartphone and still have a classic, rugged feel. Whether you’re looking for a Google Pixel 4 case or a case for your new iPhone, you’ve got plenty of options at Limited 77. With a variety of designs — from waves and American flags to astronauts and lions — there’s something for men of every stripe.
2. High-End Grooming Products
As you get older, you need to take your appearance more seriously. While part of that includes how you dress, the way you groom yourself is just as important. Having the right skincare and hair products can go a long way in helping establish the sort of confident and refined man that you’re becoming: someone who takes pride in themselves and their appearance.
Perhaps nothing is manlier than a beard, but if you don’t have the right products, it can quickly look unkempt and disgusting. That’s why you need to invest in products like beard thickener spray and different beard oils in your cabinet if you want to look great. Especially if there are some areas of your face where your beard is patchier, having some beard growth products to boost your hair follicles can be incredibly helpful. If you have the opposite situation, with a beard that won’t quit, there are products for you as well to keep your facial hair from looking unruly. No matter how much of a thick beard you have, the various nutrients and natural ingredients will help you look strong and put-together, ready to take on the world.
3. A Leather Jacket
Speaking of appearances, nothing says classic men’s fashion like a leather jacket. Leather jackets come in a variety of styles and colors, but it’s hard to go wrong with a basic black jacket if it’s your first time purchasing a leather jacket. For an instant wardrobe makeover, pair your black leather jacket with a pair of black Chelsea boots, blue jeans, and a plain white t-shirt. You’ll be turning heads wherever you go.
4. A Toolbox
Beyond owning a well-equipped toolbox, it’s important for everyone to actually know how to use each tool in the box! If you want to own a home one day, it’s important that you know how to fix things around the house like leaky faucets or hang up picture frames with ease. It’ll also give you the confidence to take care of your loved ones as you find a partner and begin making long-term choices.
5. A Retirement Account
While you don’t own a retirement account in the physical sense, having one is crucial to setting up the future you want for yourself. If you’re nearing your late 20s and haven’t opened a retirement account yet, now’s the time to start! Because of the way compound interest works, you could be losing out on tens of thousands of dollars by waiting another day to open up your retirement fund.