The Observer, April 11, 2008
Volume XL, Issue 24
Top 10 Tips for living on your own
After two years of living away from the parents, the training wheels are coming off. Next year will be different; I will be off the meal plan, and I will be entering the strange world of some version of self-sufficiency. It is all very exciting, but brings new challenges to face. Whether entering your first apartment off campus, or getting your own room next year, here are the top 10 tips for living on your own.
10. Organization. There will never be someone telling you to clean up after yourself when you are alone. Don't forget the weekly essentials, like washing your sheets and towels. Other tasks, like folding clothes and cleaning your desk are less necessary, but important nonetheless.
9. Decoration. Taking a cue from the millions of home décor makeover reality shows, it is easy to see how a little decorating goes a long way. It's important for your emotional stability that the tiny box of a room you live in feels like home, and not like a jail cell. Plants are important to bring life into a small space, as is mood lighting.
8. Cooking. This aspect of single living is easier for some. There is no need however, to live off of Chinese and Jimmy Johns. Start out slowly, cooking pasta or eggs. The Food Network's website (www.food.com) offers a variety of recipes from all their shows, indicating on level of difficulty. This can help in learning the basics.
7. Music. This is a musical breakthrough. Feel free to blast all your bad music as loud as you want. Singing is, of course, optional, but always a fun extra. My rendition of "Fergalicious" is much better when alone.
6. Comfort. It is important to feel comfortable in your new space. Remember things that you normally don't think about, like curtains, blankets, or your favorite coffee mug. Those little details will make you feel like you are home once you are actually home.
5. Vicinity. If you are not living with friends, try to live near them. Being just walking distance from close pals won't make you feel stranded if times are hard. If they are not in the same building, a friend living a few blocks away is a nice consolation.
4. Housewarming. Celebrate the happy occasion by throwing a bash. It can be a kick-off for many good times to come, ensuring your friends know your new address so they come again.
3. Schedule. We all forget to take out the trash or to get groceries. If you pick a day of the week to do those simple tasks, you won't feel like it all piles up at once.
2. Pets. Some buildings allow small pets, like cats or even dogs. If those animals aren't options, even a fish is a lot of fun. Having a pet is great company. They are a great responsibility, but will love unconditionally.
1. Enjoy the space. It's great to have friends around, but sometimes you need time for yourself, which is hard to get in a room for two. While it may seem lonely at first, there will be plenty of time for friends. It is also important to have time alone in order to distress and reflect on the day. Don't escalate to hermit mode, but enjoy the time allotted for being alone.
