10 Rules For Moving Out On Your Own

Ever since you left high school you’ve been dreaming about how you’re going to move out of your parent’s house and take the world by storm. Now you’re done with college and, well, your dreams of beaded curtains and all-night parties have given way to a more grown-up version of living solo. Maybe it’s because you’re tired of having messy roommates or perhaps you’re just ready, after living with other people for most of your life, to call all the shots in your new home.

Whatever your reason for wanting to move out on your own, it’s totally understandable. There’s just something about having your own space that makes you feel like you’re really adulting. It’s also entirely different - mom won’t be around to pick up after you and you won’t be coming home to a roommate you can vent to about a rough day. Despite the learning curve, moving out on your own is one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do and with these 10 rules, it’ll be easier than ever.

1. Create a budget...and stick to it

Learning how to budget is one of the most important things to do - ideally before you move out on your own. While you once had to split bills between roommates (or maybe your parents took care of everything), it’s now all on you. Download an app like Mint or You Need a Budget to see all of your money - expenses, income, and spending - in one place.

2. Get good at cooking (and grocery shopping) for one

Since large amounts of food will spoil more quickly with only you around to eat them, buy only enough fresh food for a week at a time. Cooking for one can take some getting used to but once you have find simple recipes that you love, you may start to enjoy experimenting in the kitchen. Oh, and remember that budgeting thing? Go ahead and buy food that you’ll enjoy eating. Having delicious options on hand will help you resist the temptation to order Indian food every night.

3. Give a spare key to a reliable friend

The important word here is reliable. Hand a spare over to a friend that you trust to show up for you in a pinch. Getting locked out of your new place is unfortunate but it does happen and you’ll want to be able to call someone that isn’t too hungover to come and rescue you.

4. Keep your new space clean

When you first move into your own place, it’s easy to let basic cleaning habits slide. After all, there are no roommates or parents around to get on your case about doing the dishes. While you don’t have to be obsessive about keeping your new home spotless, at least keep things tidy. It will make you - and anyone you invite over - feel a lot more comfortable. Plus you don’t want to attract unwanted critters as roommates. You did move out on your own for a reason, right?

5. Learn handy household skills

Instead of waiting for your landlord to come by and fix that squeaky hinge, learn how to DIY these pesky household issues. Sure, you could call your dad and ask him to fix your leaky sink but you’re out on your own now. Basic household maintenance is one of those adulting things you’ve been hearing about.

6. Get to know your neighbors

You never know when you’ll need to borrow and egg or have someone sign for a package for you. Be nice to the people who live around you - say hello in the hallway, offer to help them carry groceries in from the car, and just be the kind of neighbor you would like to have.

7. Don’t skimp on decorations

Decorating is easily the most exciting part of living alone. You are in full creative control of your new home - take advantage of that. Want a bead curtain in your living room? Go for it. Want strobe lights instead of energy-efficient light bulbs? Hey, it’s your call (and electric bill)!

8. Learn to do laundry - the right way

Gone are the days of washing whites and colors together. It’s time to take on the task of washing, folding, and putting your laundry away - correctly. Give your mom a call, she’s been waiting for this day for a long time.

9. Be comfortable with being alone

When you’re living alone for the first time, the silence can be hard to deal with. Revel in this - it won’t last forever. The more comfortable you are being alone with yourself, the easier it will be and the more you will enjoy it.

10.Maintain your social life

Though it’s great to be cool with hanging out by yourself, don’t become a shut-in when you move out on your own for the first time. Go to the gym, host casual dinner parties, and do volunteer work. Living alone doesn’t mean you have to fall off the social map.

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