8 Things I Wish I Had Known Before Moving Out

There comes a time for everyone when it’s time to leave the nest. When I first moved out, I thought I was prepared for the adult world...but looking back, there were a lot of things I wish I had known before I moved out on my own.

1. How to Cook

Constantly going out to eat is no good for your wallet nor health. I wish I had learned basic cooking skills from my family! Pop Tarts and Ramen noodles get old really quick.

2. How to Do Laundry and Other Simple Chores

Turns out you can’t mix whites and colors… When I lived at home it seemed as though the laundry and other chores magically completed themselves. (Thanks Mom!)

3. How Homesick I Would Be

At first, it seems like you can’t get out of your parents’ house soon enough. But then you start to miss the little things, like the sound of your little sister coming home from school, or the smell of your mom cooking on a Sunday morning. Home is where the heart is!

4. Living With Roommates is Not Always Easy

Moving in with a couple of people your age with no supervision should be amazing, right? Not always! It turns out, sometimes living with your friends can be more difficult than living with your family.

5. Living on Your Own is Expensive

Rent is not cheap by any means. Whether you’re paying rent with your college loans or your hard-earned paycheck, you will slowly see how quickly your bank account depletes. (If you are someone who still paid rent while living at home, then this aspect may not be as much of a struggle for you!)

6. Moving Out is Scary

You’re bound to get cold feet and emotional when moving day comes! It’s difficult to go from a routine at your parents’ house to having so much more freedom. It’s almost like you ask yourself, “What do I do now?”

7. How to Decorate

Decorating your bedroom is one thing. But when you have an entire apartment or house to decorate, things can get pretty tough. I struggled to find a balance between “a mature look” and an “I am still only 21” look. Not to mention paint colors and purchasing furniture! It’s a lot. Luckily Pinterest exists.

8. I Wish I Had Prepared More Ahead of Time

Moving is hard work! I wish I had packed more efficiently and mentally prepared myself for the adjustment. I do not suggest waiting until the last minute to find your roommates or a place to live. This is a huge stepping stone in your life, and you need to be prepared!

Whether you are moving out for the first time to go away for college, or you are leaving to study abroad, just remember you can never be 100 percent prepared. Don’t be afraid to take the leap of faith!