What Living Alone Has Taught Me

It was a Saturday in January 2017 when I took that big, scary step of moving out of my parents' house and on my own. Three years and many, MANY lessons later, I can finally say that I'm actually enjoying this whole independent lifestyle thing. So I'm going to share with you some of the most important lessons I've learned in the hopes that it will help you if you so choose to take this step.

1. How to be financially independent

Bills! So many bills. It's not just the electric bill friend. There is a fee for getting the power on to begin with and THEN there is an actual bill for how much you spend. The internet, I found out, is not free and public hot spots will not work forever. With so many things to pay you become very careful on what you spend your money on and a lot more responsible with savings and while at first it's a little sad to not TREAT YO SELF anytime you want, you really enjoy it when you do!

2. Hay comida en la casa

Friends, eating out is expensive! More so if you're trying to eat well. It use to bother me to NO end when my mom would deny my Micky Ds requests with an "en la casa hay comida." But now I get it. I also appreciate so much more the effort she put into preparing meals everyday. single. day. Including SUNDAYS!

3. You become super duper independent

The first time I had to go grocery shopping I called my mom because I didn't know what I was supposed to even buy. When you're out there making that grocery list, dusting, mopping, doing your laundry, paying bills, tightening screws and changing lightbulbs; all of it is literally up to you. You can ask for help, sure. But even that is up to YOU. And you will surprise yourself with what you're capable of achieving.

4. You get to know you a whole lot better

Being alone gives you the opportunity to see what you're like with no one around. There is no one to listen to but your own thoughts. You will come face to face with your imperfections, your doubts and insecurities. But guess what? You will become more humble, at the same time more secure in who you are and even come to embrace those imperfections and insecurities.

For me, it's been a journey of self-discovery and improvement. I've tried to design my days to allow myself the time to work on things I love, like photography and writing. This shot of the swirly coffee might seem like no big deal to you but to actually set the time and do the shooting instead of taking a nap that eventually merges with night-time sleep, was a HUGE deal for me.

5. Your can have a dance party if you like

It's your house and you make the rules and if you want to have a party at 1 in the morning in your pajamas and socks...YOU CAN DO IT! Want to paint the place green and eat while sitting on the floor? Do it. Want to get a pet bunny and let him roam everywhere? You can. It's your place and you can decorate it anyway you want.

6. Getting sick is the worst

When I lived at home I rarely got sick but since I've been living on my own I've been VERY sick multiple times. It's awful having to ride out the flu all on your own. No one to make your tea or take your temp or make you soup. You have to do it yourself. Or call your parents like I did and move back temporarily lol

Overall, living alone is an adventure and it's up to you what you do with it. It's a great time to grow and thrive and become the very best version of yourself. And even though you live on your own, family and friends are always a phone call away friend!