Adulting: 13 things guaranteed to make you feel smug AF in real life

So, in the eyes of the law, we're full-on, card-carrying adults.

And while we longed for that day as children, the reality of the adult world is very, very different; full of responsibilities and commitments we'd rather our parents or, you know, 'real' adults would deal with on our behalf.

Considering this, it's no surprise that many of us get a secret thrill out of performing an adult task or duty without requiring help or, indeed, encouragement from another adult.

And here are just 13 'grown-up' things it's OK to feel smug about totally nailing… every once in a while.

1. Ringing the bank over a statement query instead of hiding under your duvet and praying for the end of the world.

And hanging up feeling informed, placated and mature.

2. Doing a 'big shop' so your meals for the week are sorted in plenty of time, and you don't have to rely on the goodness of co-workers to feed you.

Don't mind me…or my Tupperware, guys.

3. Tending to your laundry BEFORE you run out of clean clothes, and have to wear bikini bottoms under your work trousers.

Three pairs of knickers left and yet here I am loading this drum like a good thing.

4. Cleaning out your handbag and removing every random receipt, frayed Boots voucher and empty Fruit Pastilles wrapped you find.

Eating a fluff-covered Fruit Pastille does not take away from your adult endeavours in any way, shape or form.

5. Buying a packet of treats and getting them to last an entire week instead of eating them in one sitting.

I might not even eat one today at all because I'm the boss.

6. Knowing when your next electricity bill is due, and setting aside the cash in time.

Excuse me while I transfer funds from one account to another like an absolute pro.

7. Cleaning your home from top to bottom despite the fact you're not actually expecting any visitors.

I'm cleaning, and I'm loving it.

8, Replacing the toilet roll, emptying the kitchen bin or putting the J-cloths through the washing machine… of your own accord.

I am holding this house together and no one can take that from me.

9. Setting up a savings account, and actively refusing to remove money from it because this is your time to shine, damn it.

I will not dip in. I will not dip in. I will not dip in.

10. Opting for the second cheapest wine on the menu instead of the cheapest because you're not an animal.

I'm officially going up in the world, people.

11. Bumping into a friend of your parents, and managing to hold an impromptu conversation without feeling awkward.

Look at me asking about their husband's health. My mother would be so proud right now.

12. Cleaning out your makeup bag because you felt like it, and not because there's mould growing on your brushes.

I'll be a renowned MUA at this rate.

13. Checking items off a to-do list you wrote because this whole adulting thing will not get the better of you.

OK, so I may have checked that off even though I haven't done it yet, but I know it'll be a cinch.

Oh, and while we have you; don't forget to have your say in the inaugural SHEmazing Awards this May! It's time to vote, and you can do it right here!