Living alone can be wonderful. You can have judgement-free Netflix binges, you can have friends over without worrying about bothering others, there are no cleaning schedules to agree on, etc. It’s freeing and fun. However, the thought of living alone can also be daunting. There are loads of safety concerns, as well as general loneliness to consider.
I lived alone during my first year at university. I was at the Grey Nuns Concordia residence downtown, so I didn’t have a ton to worry about. I had a dining hall to eat from, only one room to worry about cleaning, and friends living literally a few steps away. After this experience I knew I wanted to continue living alone. While I am a huge extrovert and love the company of friends while I’m on campus, I am a complete introvert when I’m home. I love cozying up in my own little space and blasting my favourite music without worrying about bothering others or being judged.
Sometimes, though, it gets lonely. Here are a few tips I’ve learned in the past years about living alone, but not being lonely!
1. Location
If it’s possible, pick a neighbourhood that you feel comfortable in. I was extremely lucky to find an apartment that was in my price range in my favourite Montreal neighbourhood. I had frequented the coffee shops in this area when I still lived in residence, so I was familiar with the area. Try to pick a spot where you’re comfortable and know your way around. This way, if you’re lonely, you can take a walk around the neighbourhood you love!
2. Know Your Neighbourhood
Similar to my last point, it’s important to be familiar with what’s around you. Locating the obvious places you’ll need to know, such as a grocery store and pharmacy, is crucial. Yet it’s also helpful to know where places like hospitals or police stations are. That way, if you’re ever in an emergency, you’ll know exactly where to go.
3. Podcasts!
I know everybody encourages listening to more podcasts, but when you live alone it’s so helpful. I hate silence, so when I’m sick of music and Netflix I turn to podcasts. I usually put one on while I’m washing the dishes or straightening up. Not only does it keep me company, but I often learn something new or inspiring as well.
4. Decorate
Make your apartment as lively as you wish. One of the perks of living alone is decorating your entire apartment however you please. Adding photos of family and friends, fairy lights, or colourful artwork can help to make your apartment feel like home. I love websites like Society6 or Redbubble because you can buy numerous home goods with a unique artistic style. Since there’s nobody to negotiate styles with, you can tailor the decor to fit your own personal aesthetic.
5. Keep Essentials
It might seem obvious, but keeping some essentials around your home is crucial. Basics like a non-perishable food and a flashlight can help if there’s a prolonged power outage. I keep a small first-aid kit with numerous essential medicines and band-aids. It’s also helpful to have a few essential food items in case you forget to grocery shop or meal prep. I always make sure I have some type of pasta, soy milk, eggs, and bread in stock.
6. Host friends
One of the best parts of living alone is that you don’t need to worry about bothering roommates if you want to have friends over. Host a little game night or dinner party to keep you company. Plus, it’ll give you the motivation to clean up or make a new meal.