Either a girl or a boy, either after 12th standard or after graduation, even if it is for a one year diploma or for a new job which might be for ten years. For a girl or in some cases even for a boy after marriage – EVERYONE has to go out of his home at least once in his life. 21st century is not the time when the boy can stay with his parents for his entire life not worrying about growth, success or the likes. There comes a day when for all those beautiful little sparrows, their nest feels small and she has to leave for the higher skies.
Dreaming about the independent life, the new friend circle, the joy of doing everything on your own is all very romantic. But, in reality, living away from home for the first time is not as rosy as youngsters might think. For most of them, it is the first time when they are living alone and managing everything on their own. Plus, some of the emotional pigeons are extremely homesick, which adds stress to the already confused life. In such a case if the new job or the new course is difficult or requires one to put in a lot of hard work, then it becomes a horrendous time for the person involved.
Moving out of the parents shadow is in fact a very fulfilling decision if one has a very practical and calculated attitude. Of course it’s difficult but once you master the skill, there is nothing like the independence and confidence of staying out. So, for all those embarking on this new journey of life with little confusion, apprehension and lots of passion, here are few tips which would help them survive that first year in hostel without any major scratches to their well-being.
Know that it is going to be difficult
Yes of course, it’s not at all a cake walk because it’s your first endeavor without your mother. You are used to having everything on a platter in front of you and you can relax and let your parents take care of everything. But now it’s gonna be you, you and only you from now on. From taking care of the grocery, laundry, cleaning to paying the bills, cooking everything. It will not come to you instantly but you will have to practice it with discipline and patience.
You will be homesick.
Homesickness is like jet lag – it’s inevitable. You feel it very strongly and for some it’s unbearable. But this is a phase which everyone has to go through and come out of it. When you do feel home sick, distraction is the best solution. Try to get yourself involved in things, activities and sports which interests you the most.
You have to share your life, your things.
Most of the people will have a room partner to share your room. For people who are accustomed to having a separate room at home might feel this as an intrusion in your privacy. Even for people staying together with siblings, its not easy to adjust because you suddenly have to start sharing your life with a complete stranger. Add to it if the other person has completely different habits than you?? In such a situation, you have to be patient and understand that the other person is also going through the same phase as you. If you can pass through this test without any hiccups, then there is no better friend than your hostel room partner to last you your entire life.
You have to take care of the money
For people who are out there for a job, it important to plan how you manage your finances and for people who are there for studying its imperative that they spend their pocket money wisely to last for the entire month. In any case, it will be very interesting to think how you plan and think about your money. Because after all, its money which can create huge problems within family as well as friends.
Changes in the food
Of course, you will now not get hot and fresh chapatis and your favorite bhendi ki sabjee. But you will have to adjust with the “mess ka khana” or in general just eating something which is not the best food you have been getting at your home. As much as possible, inculcate healthy eating habit from this time itself so that it doesn’t bother you after a certain age.
Sleep disturbance
Whether the disturbance in sleep is due to change of place, change of weather or whether you are homesick, sleep deprivation would remain very common. Also add to it, there might be pending studies, work, friends – so here goes your sleep. But as much as possible, understand the importance of sleep and try to take as much rest as possible. Sleep early and wake up early.
The adult habits
Yes. You will get your first encounter with heavy smoking, drinking and all the after effects of that with full dramatization. For people who are already accustomed to it, they will understand what drinking with friends mean. And it might be possible that you get carried away. Everyone has different opinion about how much to smoke or drink. But always be in control, take a firm stand and understand the repercussions of your actions.
Smoking and Drinking is Injurious to health**
Patience
Last and the most important thing. Understand that this is just a phase and will pass shortly. You just need to give your best and sustain a little more. Before you know it you will make many great friends and start enjoying the new freedom.
