Posted July 26, 2023

Moving out for the first time can be both exhilarating and terrifying. The prospect of living on your own, making your own decisions, and decorating your own home is exciting, but at the same time, it can be a daunting experience. As a seasoned mover, I’ve been through the experience four times, and I know firsthand how scary it can be. In this post, I aim to address some common fears that young people have when getting ready to move out on their own and provide some tips on how to make the transition a smoother one.

1) Fear of the Unknown: The fear of the unknown is one of the most prominent fears that young people face while moving out. It’s natural to feel anxious when you’ve never done this before. The best way to tackle this fear is to research and prepare as much as possible. Talk to people who have already moved out, research online about living independently, and make a list of all the things you need to do before the big move.

2) Fear of Money: Money troubles are arguably one of the most significant hurdles first-time movers face. Monthly bills, rent, groceries, and other expenses can quickly add up, which can lead to stress and anxiety. But the best way to ease this concern is to create a budget and stick to it. Monitor your spending habits, look for ways to save money, and don’t stray from your budget.

3) Fear of Loneliness: Living alone for the first time can be a significant factor behind the fear of loneliness. The thought of coming home to an empty apartment can be frightening, and it’s important to remember that you're not alone. You have friends, family, coworkers, and even neighbors who are there to support you. Join gym classes, attend social events, get involved in activities, and meet new people. This can be particularly heavy for those moving from foster homes, or group homes where you were surrounded by lots of people all the time. What once seemed like an annoyance or inconvenience can feel a bit comforting when thinking about being all alone for the first time.

4) Fear of Failure: The fear of failure can plague anyone, regardless of their age. If you feel like you’re not quite ready to move out yet, that’s okay. Don’t rush the process and take your time. National foster care statistics indicate that many young adults who age out of foster care struggle with finding stable housing. If you need a little bit more help, seek guidance and assistance from friends, family, or professionals. Reach out to your ILS worker for assistance and if you are in Clallam or Jefferson Counties, that would be me, so hit me up using the contact form or any of the ways shown in the get in touch section.

5) Fear of Change: Change is inevitable, and it’s normal to feel anxious when your surroundings change. Acknowledge that this fear is a natural occurrence and that change is a positive experience that can help you grow. For those of you who have been in foster care, this is likely a familiar feeling, but it takes on a new nuance when you are moving out to be independent, especially since being involved in "The System" isn't the best for creating any independence. Embrace the new opportunities, explore your new surroundings, and enjoy the newfound independence.

Moving out for the first time is an emotional rollercoaster, but it’s a journey that’s worth taking. Overcoming your fears and adjusting to your new life takes time, but don’t worry, you’ll get there. Keep in mind that it’s natural to feel scared and anxious, and everybody experiences fear differently. Remember to take the time to research, plan your finances, and be social. And, most importantly, don’t be too hard on yourself if it takes a little bit longer to adjust. Enjoy the newfound independence!