6 Things I Learned After Moving Out

I didn’t move out of my family’s home until I was 20.  It wasn’t an act of rebellion or because I hated my family/parents and wanted to get away from them.  It was just simply the right time.

I first moved in with two roommates in a house about five minutes from my family (see? I wasn’t running away).  Then moved in with an uncle for about six months.  Then, most recently, moved to a townhouse, in which I live in the private bottom level of.

Moving out and being independent has taught me many lessons.  A few of which I shall now share.

1)  I miss my family.  Like, a lot.
I grew up in a family of 9.  There was always some sort of noise, voices, chores being done, laughter, cleaning, etc.  The only time there was peace and quite was at night, after everyone was tucked in bed.  Since moving out, it’s nothing but quiet at my house.  I crave the times I get to go visit my family, and it physically aches whenever I drive away from them, from the home I grew up in, from all the hugs and kisses I get when I am there.  Moving out has taught me even more to cherish my family and the times I get to spend with them.

2)  Home-cooked meals are life.
Living on my own has definitely taught me that eating out and grabbing something here and there isn’t always the best option.  Cuz, holy crap, will it cut into the budget.  I do love cooking, though, so grocery shopping is life-saving, and making meals that last me a couple days are the best.  But, going home and eating an amazing meal cooked by Mama…well, there’s nothing better than that.

3)  Budgeting is key.
Keeping track of every nickel and dime, asking myself “Do I need or want this?” at the store, making sure I keep receipts, write down how much I spend each day… This has all been something I’ve forced myself to do when I moved out, and it has saved me a lot of pretty pennies.

4)  Don’t become complacent.
One of the millennials worst traits is being apathetic and complacent.  ”I’m bored af” is a commonly used phrase.  And one I never use.  Why?  Because the moment I start feeling lazy is the moment I can find something to do, some way to make this world better, some time to do something new, to do something that matters.  Living alone, working hard, coming home to a quiet house can sometimes just make me wanna go plop on my bed and watch Netflix for the rest of the day.  But I know that isn’t profitable, and it’s not gonna get me ahead in life.  I’m not saying that Netflix and chill is never a good idea.  But just don’t make it a habit.

5)  Adulting.
You really aren’t an adult until you move out and can live a year without calling your parents up for money.  Let’s just say that. #responsibility

6)  You learn lessons.
Okay so I’ve screwed up on certain things when it comes to being independent and making my own choices and choosing where to live and work.  But hey, life is about making mistakes and learning from them.  Moving out has given me the opportunity to learn knowledge and skill on my own.  And it really has been good for me.