She Strengthens

Embracing Independence: Lessons Learned from Living on My Own

As I celebrate one year of living in my own place with my husband, I reflect on the transformative journey that has helped me discover my true self. This milestone has been a catalyst for growth, self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of what I want for my future.

Breaking Free from Extended Adolescence

Living with my parents until age 25 had its comforts, but it also meant I was absolved from making crucial decisions about my life. I didn’t have to think about decor, groceries, cleaning, or organizing – everything was taken care of. However, this lack of responsibility created bad habits and a sense of apathy. When I finally took the leap and started living on my own, I was forced to confront my shortcomings and develop essential life skills.

Identifying Problem Areas

As I navigated the challenges of independent living, I pinpointed areas that needed improvement: grocery shopping, cooking, and maintaining good cleaning habits. These may seem like mundane tasks, but they are essential to creating a sense of order and stability in my life.

Six Key Changes

In the past year, I’ve noticed significant changes in my lifestyle and behavior. Here are six key areas where I’ve made progress:

1. Redefining Mealtime

I used to eat dinner at 6 PM out of habit, but since living on my own, I’ve discovered that I prefer eating later in the evening when I’m actually hungry. Cooking for myself and my husband has become a joy, and I’ve learned to honor my body clock.

2. Taking Control of My Finances

I used to neglect my mail, but now I’m diligent about sorting and organizing it immediately. This small change has given me a sense of control over my finances and reduced stress.

3. Finding Peace in Silence

I’ve realized that I crave quiet time and prefer a peaceful environment. I’ve stopped watching excessive TV, especially the 24/7 news cycle, and instead opt for calming background noise like public radio.

4. Breaking Up with Freeloading

I used to treat my mom’s bathroom like a personal CVS/Walgreens, but I’ve since learned to take responsibility for my own toiletries. This may seem like a small change, but it’s helped me develop a sense of independence and self-sufficiency.

5. Embracing Full-Flavor Living

I’ve stopped buying “light” foods and instead opt for full-fat, full-flavor items. This shift in mindset has helped me develop a healthier relationship with food and reduced my reliance on diet products.

6. Mindful Consumption

Living in a small apartment has forced me to be more conscious of my purchases. I’ve learned to prioritize essentials over impulse buys and focus on what I truly need rather than what I want. This new approach has been beneficial for my wallet and the environment.

A Year of Growth

As I look back on the past year, I’m proud of the progress I’ve made. Living on my own has been a transformative experience that has helped me become a more mindful, responsible, and self-aware person. While it’s not always easy, I know that this journey has been worth it.