Moving away from home is an experience that comes with an array of realities. A part of you looks forward to the independence. You know, buying your own food, making your own schedule and never having to report to anyone.
Nevertheless, moving away from home also comes with several fears like loneliness, financial stress and failure.
Over the last six months, I have experienced and come to terms with all of these. Truthfully, moving away from home and living your own life on your own terms is the most challenging and rewarding experience I have ever faced.
There are so many lessons I have already learned that truly cannot be taught without experiencing them.
Life Is Way More Expensive Than You Thought
I think this is an obvious one. Anyone who has lived on his or her own knows there are expenses that one would never even think exist: healthcare, toilet seats, light bulbs... the list goes on and on.
Moving away from home is an amazing experience, but make sure you budget double what you are expecting on having to spend. The more money you have, the more rewarding your experience will be.
Freedom Is Way Scarier Than It Is Perceived To Be
I have always been a fairly independent person. Growing up, I always liked to take care of my affairs and did everything in my power to show I can support myself.
With that being said, the freedom we experience while living with our parents is nowhere near the level we experience living on our own. In all honesty, freedom is a scary thing and with freedom comes responsibility.
Since there is no one watching your every move, it is essential you ensure you are doing everything in your power to keep your life afloat.
You Learn What You Are Capable Of And Begin To Recognize It’s Okay To Ask For Help
We are capable of way more than we give ourselves credit for. Moving out quickly teaches you the importance of budgeting, taking care of your health and maintaining a social life, while working and/or studying.
Moving away teaches you the importance of prioritizing what you HAVE to do and what you WANT to do. It is impossible to do everything. We are all human; we all have limits.
When I first moved away on my own, there was a part of me that wanted to impress my family and friends and prove I was capable of balancing everything. After a few hurdles (which will come your way), you begin to recognize that it’s okay to ask for assistance and guidance.
Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of maturity.
You Learn To Be Courageous And Take Risks
Moving away on your own is an extremely courageous act and proves you can take risks. So, don’t simply stop there. Living on your own teaches you the importance of taking risks and displays how beneficial being courageous can be.
When I first moved to Vancouver, I was extremely nervous. I began to question my decision to move so far away, and when faced with my first challenge, I doubted my ability to display courage.
In reality, the moments in my life where I have had to display courage and follow my gut have proven to have great benefits.
You Encounter More Challenge And Reward Than Ever Before
You will undoubtedly face challenges. I can promise you there will be moments when you doubt yourself. You will doubt your decision to move away; you will feel lonely and you will definitely fear the possibility of failure.
With that being said, those challenges will lead to your greatest rewards. Those challenges will teach you to budget; they will teach you be responsible. They will show your capabilities, and they definitely will highlight your courage to overcome them.
All of the greatest challenges I have faced thus far from living on my own have led to great rewards.
Never be afraid to move away from home -- you can do it.
