Living On Your Own
Whether you are moving out of your parent’s house or no longer living with roommates, the transition of living on your own can be tough, but very rewarding. When you are living on your own, you have the freedom to do things in whatever way you please.
Setting a Budget
One of the most important aspects to consider is your budget as it looks much different from what you had in place before. All of the bills are now 100% your responsibility, so planning ahead and setting a budget is crucial. Accounting for heat, electricity, internet, groceries, gas, activities in a detailed budget before you move out can be very helpful.
This will create a clear picture of your income, expenses and what is left over for savings and discretionary purchases. If you spend this time comparing your income to your necessary spending it can make it much easier to understand when you can afford to splurge versus tightening your spending.
Create a List
Depending on how many things you already have for your new place, making a plan for what you need will cut spending and allow for an easy move. By creating a list of what you have and what you need, you are able to see what furniture, appliances, electronics, and other key items you need to purchase.
It’s important to only focus on the items you absolutely need and then slowly purchase additional items over the next few months.
Safety Matters
Another factor to consider when living on your own is keeping your home safe, especially when you are the only one there. The basic measures like installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can go a long way towards protecting you in case of an emergency.
Additionally, keeping a fire extinguisher inside your home, near the kitchen in case of a potential grease fire is very beneficial. Be sure that your home has a door bolt and you may even consider installing a security system. If you are in an apartment, watch your surroundings and have pepper spray on you, especially during the nighttime.
It’s Your Space
The exciting part about living on your own is that you can cook, clean, watch TV, decorate the house your way and receive no judgment. It’s your space!
Becoming comfortable and making the space a safe place is so important. Learning how to cook if you haven’t in the past doesn’t take too much effort and can lead to saving a great deal of money. Not only that, but it can be a fun activity to do as being alone can be boring and overwhelming at times. Cook a meal and invite your friends over.
Resources
There are so many resources to take advantage of that can make your move that much smoother. Explore the area in which you are moving and see what grocery stores, restaurants, bars, parks, etc. and become apart of the community.
Make sure you introduce yourself to your neighbors, as they can be a great deal of help down the road. Celebrate your independence and relish in the freedom of living on your own.