I moved out four months ago, and I believe I am equipped to write about moving out, particularly the least discussed aspect of it. Moving out can be frightening for most individuals, especially if you are not used to being alone and away from your family. Things you hear about moving out can make it even more frightening.
You've heard enough about how crazy the cost of curtains or a mattress is, or how you, who doesn’t even know how much your parents pay for the house you have lived in for years, are suddenly mature enough to start paying your own bills, including rent. Somehow, I feel like it’s my duty to emphasize the other side of moving out that isn't generally discussed enough. The unexpected, but positive, aspect of moving out.
A Packet of sugar lasts months. I grew up in a large family where a package of sugar could last us two weeks. Imagine my surprise, as someone who drinks tea every day, when the first packet of sugar I got lasted me months! Well, expect sugar, other groceries, toiletries and electricity to last you more that you might expect. This was a huge relief for me, especially because things are so awful economically and costs are rising every day.
A lot of quiet mornings and nights. Expect your mornings and nights to be fairly calm unless you live in a really noisy neighborhood. This is a huge deal for those of us who grew up in a very ordinary, active household, where even if you didn't plan on waking up early, you still ended up being woken up early by someone opening or closing doors, turning on lights, or cleaning.
A life of independence. Of course, moving out screams "independence," but the levels of independence are just ridiculous! The moment your landlord hands you the keys to your new home, the transaction is sealed. You become a fully independent adult. You can leave your residence whenever you want and return whenever you like. This may not seem like a big thing to you, but people with strict parents, can relate how liberating that is it.
A discovery. Everything about moving out is a discovery, but the greatest discovery of all is finding your way back to yourself. A friend of mine, Birdy, pointed out that living with people you love and care about, or simply just anyone, has a way of changing you, whether subconsciously or consciously. In certain ways, it may end up depriving you of your identity. You end up compromising on things you normally wouldn’t compromise on, you end up identifying yourself in relation to others and before you know it, you have lost yourself. Living alone has a way of reconnecting you with yourself and removing you from the expectations of others.
All in all, move out when you're ready, and it will be the best experience you've ever had; however, if you're forced to leave before you're ready, don't worry, you'll be fine.
What has been your most positive experience with moving out? Please share in the comments box.
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