The diary of a 20 something

Living alone in your 20’s

Living on your own can be absolutely scary, especially when you’re pretty young or have never done so before. I would encourage my fellow 20 somethings, who are about to be in this boat; that you are more than capable. Moving in to my own place at 23, there were so many things I anticipated and some many things that wish I knew before.

Budget & Plan Ahead!

You might be planning to move in a month’s time, six months, a year- heck you might not even know when! However, if you’re able to start buying the little things such as pots, small appliances, utensils, towels and other house supplies; please do so. These little things add up and the earlier you’re able to start investing in your first place is the cheaper it will work out in the long run. I had to move with little notice therefore I had to buy most of my items once I relocated and trust nothing could prepare me for how much money I would have to spend! those dress up and home décor games really had good PR because I swore things were more affordable in real life. Don’t be afraid to visit your local haberdasheries or convenient stores- the products are pretty much the same as the ones with the ‘big names’.

Did I say things were expensive???

On the topic of household items, if you’re unable to buy your major appliances cash, don’t be afraid to make use of higher purchase! I am a big saver so I had been saving ahead of my move which made the process a lot easier, however the price to rest your head, have a cool drink of water and somewhere to sit are ridiculously high. Some landlords offer partly furnished apartments, so if this is something you’re ok with, then you can explore this avenue. Even so- if you’re able to overtime, try to purchase your own furniture and other items…this is a big deal- having things “to yuh name” is an amazing feeling, you work hard and it’s great to have something to show for it, not for others but for yourself. Plus, I’ve moved twice and the second time around was much cheaper given that I had actual things to move with this time around.

Your Safe Space!

My stupid advice, be protective of your space- not everyone should be welcome to your home, don’t let anyone guilt you into them moving in and sometimes you’re not at home– even if you are. Your home is your safe space, the world can be noisy, chaotic and cruel sometimes and this may be one of the few spaces you have to just be yourself, clear your head and reset. Ensure you protect the peace that this affords you, unapologetically too. As someone who has always been introverted and works a job that requires of me to be extremely social- most days just the thought that I get to go home to silence and “bed-rot” as the girls call it, gets me excited.

Make it your own!

We know rentals can be tricky, there are so many rules to follow and you’re confined to the perimeters in which you can make adjustments to the space. Find fun DIYs that are renter friendly, because we MUST secure that rental advance when we do decide to relocate again! If you’re moving into your own home- GO HAM, smartly of course, there are so many affordable ways to make your space your own. The important thing regardless, is that you feel at home and comfortable. Others should be able to walk into your space and see you! (Check out Fia Garcia for some tips).

No Rush…

Move out when you’re ready. It’s common for us as we get older for there to be the pressure for some of us to “get your own place” because it’s the “adult thing to do”. There is absolutely nothing wrong with staying at your family home until you’re stable enough to do home life on your own and for some you may desire to live with a partner or have roommates and this is also pretty ok- in fact I’m all for doing what works for you! Life is expensive and we don’t need to complicate it any further…

What have you learnt about yourself living on your own or what are you looking forward to the most?