- Living alone as an adult is about balancing responsibilities with freedom
- Unfortunately, there is no manual guide on how to navigate this phase
- TheRadar has curated a relatable adulting checklist for mastering life on your own
There comes a pivotal moment in life when the familiar sounds of a shared home fade, and you're left standing in your own space, with nothing but a bunch of keys, an empty fridge, and the thrilling yet slightly terrifying realisation that you're finally on your own.
Living alone for the first time is a rite of passage, an exciting leap into adulthood that brings equal parts freedom and responsibility.
From figuring out how to unclog a sink without calling your dad to deciding whether cereal qualifies as dinner, this phase is all about discovering your rhythm and building a life that runs on your terms.
But let’s be honest, adulting doesn't come with an instruction manual.
That’s why we’ve created the ultimate adulting checklist, your go-to guide to help you navigate this exciting new chapter with confidence, grace, and a little bit of style.
Whether you're setting up your first apartment or just learning to budget without blowing it all on takeout, this checklist has your back.
Adulting checklist for someone living alone
1. Set up your finances
One of the most crucial aspects of adulting is managing your finances. Setting up a sound financial system will reduce stress and keep you in control of your money.
- Create a budget: Start by tracking your income and expenses. Factor in rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and savings.
- Set up emergency savings: Aim to have at least three months' worth of living expenses saved for emergencies.
- Pay bills on time: Late fees add up quickly, so ensure your rent, utilities, and other bills are paid on time. You can consider setting up automatic payments for recurring bills to avoid forgetting them.
2. Furnish & organise your space
Your home should feel like your sanctuary, and the right furnishings and organisation make a big difference.
- Furniture: Start with the basics; bed, table, chairs, and couch. You don’t have to buy everything all at once but prioritise comfort and functionality.
- Kitchenware: Invest in a few essential kitchen items such as pots, pans, utensils, plates, and a cutting board. If you love to cook, you can gradually add more equipment over time.
- Cleaning supplies: Stock up on cleaning essentials like brooms, mops, cleaning cloths, and multi-purpose cleaners to keep your space tidy.
- Storage solutions: Use bins, baskets, and organisers to keep things in order. Living alone means you'll be responsible for organising everything yourself, so make sure your space is practical and clutter-free.
3. Establish a cleaning routine
Living alone means no one else will clean up after you. A simple cleaning routine can prevent your space from getting messy and overwhelming.
- Daily tasks: Wipe down surfaces, do the dishes, and take out the trash every day. It doesn’t take long, but it will keep your home presentable.
- Weekly tasks: Vacuuming, mopping the floors, and cleaning the bathroom should be done weekly.
- Monthly deep clean: Tackle tasks like washing windows, cleaning the oven, and decluttering your closet.
4. Cook for yourself
For many, cooking is one of the hardest things about living alone, but learning how to cook simple meals can save you money and improve your well-being.
- Start simple: Learn a few basic recipes like white rice, Jollof rice, and stir-fry meals that are easy and don’t require a lot of ingredients.
- Meal prep: Set aside time each week to prepare meals in advance. This will save you time and energy on busy days, and it’s a great way to stick to a budget.
- Stock your pantry: Have essentials on hand, such as rice, pasta, beans, spices, and oils. These are the backbone of many meals and make cooking easier.
5. Learn how to shop smart
Grocery shopping is an art in itself when you're living alone. You want to buy enough food without overdoing it and wasting money.
- Plan your meals: Take some time to plan your meals for the week before heading to the store. This will help you avoid impulse buying and reduce food waste.
- Make a list: Always create a shopping list to avoid buying things you don’t need.
- Don’t forget basics: Items like milk, eggs, bread, and vegetables should be staples in your fridge. Buying in bulk can also help you save money on frequently used items.
6. Learn basic home maintenance
Living alone means you’re responsible for maintaining your space. Having some basic home maintenance skills will make things a lot easier.
- Know how to fix minor issues: Learn how to unclog a drain, fix a leaky faucet, and replace lightbulbs.
- Keep a toolbox: Stock your home with basic tools like a hammer, screwdriver, tape measure, and pliers. These tools will come in handy for minor repairs.
7. Health & wellness: Prioritise self-care
Living alone gives you the freedom to take care of yourself in your own way. Establishing self-care routines and taking care of your health is essential.
- Stay active: It’s easy to become sedentary when you’re living alone. Try to incorporate some physical activity into your daily tasks.
- Mental health matters: Spend time doing things that help you relax and unwind, whether it’s reading, meditating, or talking to friends.
- Have a first-aid kit: Keep a first-aid kit stocked with essentials like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any necessary prescriptions.
8. Build a social network
Even though you’re living alone, it’s important to stay connected with others.
- Join a community: Find local events, clubs, or organisations to meet new people and establish a support network.
- Keep in touch with family & friends: Check in with loved ones regularly. Living alone can feel lonely at times, and maintaining relationships is key to feeling connected.
9. Security and safety
Living alone also means taking extra precautions to keep yourself safe. Here’s how to protect yourself and your space.
- Change the locks: If you’re renting, it’s worth asking if you can change the locks for peace of mind.
- Invest in security systems: Consider getting a home security system or smart locks to monitor your space remotely. Even a simple doorbell camera can help you feel secure.
- Emergency numbers: Keep a list of emergency numbers in an easily accessible place.
10. Develop time management skills
Living alone can come with distractions, especially if you're balancing work, school, or personal life. Managing your time effectively will help you stay on top of your responsibilities.
- Set routines: Establish daily routines for cleaning, cooking, and personal tasks. A consistent schedule can help you stay organised and productive.
- Avoid procrastination: It’s easy to put things off when no one else is around to remind you. Break down tasks into smaller steps and tackle them one at a time.
11. Practise independence
Living alone is a learning experience, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way.
Embrace the opportunity to practice independence.
- Be kind to yourself: It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times, but don’t let challenges get you down. Embrace the journey of learning and growing into your adult self.
- Celebrate your successes: Every small accomplishment, whether it’s cooking your first meal or managing your finances, deserves a celebration. It’s all part of the adulting process.
Living alone for the first time is a transformative experience that teaches you life skills, self-reliance, and responsibility.
With the right mindset and a little planning, you’ll find yourself thriving in your own space.
Follow this adulting checklist, and you’ll be well on your way to navigating this exciting chapter of your life with confidence and ease.
Remember, it’s all about balance; take things one step at a time, and enjoy the journey of adulthood.
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