(no subject)

[nny]

Things I have to work out in the next two months:

How I'm going to remain sane while living on my own

How I'm going to afford to live on my own

How much my monthly outgoings are likely to be while living on my own (how much does gas/electric cost? I have no idea!)

How to stick to a budget while living on my own

How to be productive while living on my own

Where I'm going to live on my own

How I'm going to ensure a social life (while living on my own)

Quite how this turned into a little ditty without my consent.

Any advice or encouragement appreciated. I still think this is a good idea - I'm 26, FFS, and I've still not lived (on my own). It's just, y'know, moderately intimidating.

My reasoning behind this decision, by the way, was that someone once called me a marshmallow with a ball bearing inside. If I possibly can rely on anyone else I will, you see, but when it comes down to it I'm more than capable of kicking ass and taking names. I think I need to prove that to myself.

Comments

[midnight-violet.livejournal.com]

re: the money- gem has a separate wallets system. If the "treats" money is all gone, she can see this, and does not risk spending the "groceries" money. This is just for when things are tricky, but might be a way to get started?

gas and electric seems to vary wildly, i do not understand these matters. talk to locals. also about council tax, its a different system everywhere I've lived.

[gramarye1971]

There are a couple of sensible personal finance blogs out there that have good tips and suggestions about setting up and sticking to a budget -- I can provide links if you like.

On second thought, I'll send you an e-mail with some thoughts on creating and working with a budget, and such.

[villainny.livejournal.com]

That would be hugely appreciated, thank you ever so much, sweetheart.

(Also please include your address?)

[gramarye1971]

Will do! (It may go into an attached Word file, because my thoughts are getting long.)

EDIT: And sent!

[ladycat777.livejournal.com]

Can I get some of those links, as well? asks the random person you do not know at all.

[torakowalski.livejournal.com]

I have no practical advice but can offer plenty of encouragement *\o/*

[liz666.livejournal.com]

Taking such a big step like this is always terrifying-everyone experiences it when taking that leap. The best you can do is be as prepared as possible-make a list of what you got coming in every month. Then make a list of what you got coming out, phone, food, etc. If you're not sure about gas and electricity-you should have some bills there which you can split in half and roughly estimate your usage.

Social aspects will take some time to adjust to-try to promise yourself you'll go out at least once a month and meet up with friends. If you're having a cheap month then make it a phonecall instead or something. You'll have to keep in contact with people more once you live on your own and it does get easier I swear! I also promise I will call you at least once a month myself :)

You are so ready for this. I know you don't feel that way but you're going to love having your own place. And if being on your own bothers you at times, that's ok too-invite people over! Be hostessing and entertaining! You've got all my support babe

(and I think you are a particularly sexy marshmallow ;D )

[toft-froggy.livejournal.com]

OOh, you are brave. I've been thinking about living on my own - maybe next year - but I've never done it either, and am freaked out by the idea. I'm sure it's a very good thing to do!

[(Anonymous)]

I think this is really brave of you. I'm 29 and I've always had roommates. For as much of a pain as they can be, I like knowing that someone will be home, but I'm starting to think about being on my own too.

So I can't offer much advice but wish you lots of luck! I think you can do this :)