Unit 3: Becoming Independent - Reading

Living on your own might be something that you dream of achieving some day, but at the same time, the thought can be scary. You need an income, and then after that you need the survival skills to take care of yourself without anyone there to support you. This guide will help prepare you for that transition so that some day you can live independently. First, create a support network. We need people to be there for us and to also be honest with us and tell us how we can improve ourselves. Preferably, this network will extend beyond family members and include at least one close friend that you trust. Ultimately, when you are living on your own, you might encounter many obstacles you have never thought of and you will want someone there to be supportive of you and to help you as you navigate a life of independence. Second, master your weaknesses. It is a good idea to try and be aware of your weaknesses. If possible, have your close friend tell you what they feel are your biggest weaknesses. It Is also good to know your strengths, but it is your weaknesses that you need to work on. For instance, you might get very focused on playing video games for hours, maybe days at a time. While it is okay to play video games, playing them for days at a time when trying to live on your own can lead to you losing your job and also your house. So, it is important that you recognize your weaknesses and do your best to work with them. Next, learn to balance your schedule. It is important to learn how to do multiple things in a day. You need to be flexible and willing to schedule time for activities, work, and social engagements. Then, live a healthy lifestyle. You should exercise and try to eat healthy. You also have to maintain your hygiene or you might find yourself out of a job. Last but not least, follow your dreams and make them come true. Look through the newspapers and online and find that apartment or house that you desire to live in. Decide that you are going to move out and make it happen. Ultimately, living on your own is something that you have to make happen for yourself. So, decide that is what you want and don’t allow anything to deter you from your goal.

Improve your time - management skills It is common for all of us to take more tasks than our desired potential. This can often result in stress and tiredness. Learn the art of sharing work with your partners based on their skills and abilities. Before the start of the day, make a list of tasks that need your immediate attention as unimportant tasks can consume much of your precious time. Some tasks need to be completed on that day only while other unimportant tasks could be carried forward to next day. In short, prioritize your tasks to focus on those that are more important. Carry a planner or notebook with you and list all the tasks that come to your mind. Make a simple “To Do” list before the start of the day, prioritize the tasks, and make sure that they are attainable. To better manage your time-management skills, you may think of making 3 lists: work, home, and personal. Stress often occurs when we accept more work than our ability. The result is that our body starts feeling tired which can affect our productivity. Instead, share tasks with your partners and make sure to leave some time for relaxation. Most of the successful men and women have one thing in common. They start their day early as it gives them time to sit, think, and plan their day. When you get up early, you are more calm, creative, and clear-headed. As the day progresses, your energy levels start going down, which affects your productivity and your performance as well.