What I've Learned By Living Alone In My 20s
It’s been 365 days since I was handed the keys to my very own apartment. After having roommates for the past 26 years of my life (shout out to my mom and dad: the best roommates, ever) it was time that I was queen of my own, tiny, castle. A place where I dictated where the plates would be stored, when the lights would be turned off and a place where no one could argue that fresh blooms weren’t necessary. Between unpacking boxes, becoming savvy with storage, budgeting a solo rent check, and dealing with the scary noises at night I’ve learned a thing or two.
5 things I’ve learned by living alone:
1. Pants Are Always Optional
Let’s dive right into the fun side of living alone: the no pants dance. Or any dance for that matter. Living by yourself gives you the right of passage to walk around in barely there underwear or singing Taylor Swift naked at the top of your lungs. Not having to worry if your roommate is going to walk around the corner spotting you flaunting your assets is a freeing feeling. No pants? No problems.
2. I Depend On Me
When living alone you truly realize where you fall on the independent scale. No longer splitting rent may be an initial dagger to the stomach but girlfriend let me tell you, it’s one powerful feeling. Taking care of yourself and a household day in and day out is an invaluable life skill. When maintain a home each new experience will improve your self-esteem and some days it may even feel like a massive accomplishment. When you change the light bulb or unclog the sink don’t be surprised when you all the sudden you hear Beyonce in the background, “All the women who are independent throw your hands up at me. All the honest who makin’ money throw your hands up at me.”
3. Endless Chatter
Maybe it’s just me (someone please back me up here) but I have never talked to myself more than I have since living alone. Seriously, it’s constant chatter out loud to …. no one. If only the walls could talk – ha!
4. Find The Nearest Grocery Store
You will run out of food and you will feel like the world is ending. The worst part about it? You only have yourself to blame. Remembering to go to the grocery store before you start licking the crumbs is key. Also, as I’ve learned from experience, standing in front of the fridge opening and closing the door does not make food magically appear.
5. Lock It Up
Maybe I’ve watch one too many scary movies but when you live alone it’s totally ‘normal’ to check to make sure the door is locked about 45 times a day. Movies aside, do ensure your safety remains #1 priority especially when you’re the only one under the roof.
If you live alone what is the one tip you would give someone who’s about to do the same?
