We face many anticipated milestones that seem to always be better than the last one. With graduating, your first car, a new job, new relationships, and, of course, moving, each milestone makes growing up seem all the more exciting. Moving seems to be the accomplishment that is valued the most. It is the point where you are no longer subjected to somebody else's rules, and can finally live your life the way you’ve always dreamed of. Although this step seems like one that you can make happen quickly, I’m here to share with you the reality of moving and how you can prepare for this amazing change in your life.

When it comes to moving, it can be one of the most exciting things, or one of the scariest, if you don’t plan wisely. When you move, it’s a chance to meet new people, see new things, and have a brand new start, but there are things needed to make the move possible. You have to understand how big of a step it is and why you are making the decision in the first place.

Next, you have to decide if you are going to be able to afford living alone or if you need a roommate. It would be horrific to move out just to have to crawl back to Mommy and Daddy because you didn’t think it all the way through. It is also easy to get distracted by enticing factors like decorating, but it all comes with a price, literally. You will need to save up anywhere between five and seven thousand dollars for the move. That money is for the first month’s rent, security deposit, moving costs, furniture, miscellaneous, and money for a rainy day. Moving isn’t about the chance to decorate a space and lounge in it; you can do that at your parents' house.

This milestone is about growing up and taking responsibility for yourself. So while gathering information on when and where you want to move, you should begin to build your credit, because some apartments do credit checks, and you'll want to look into apartment insurance to make sure you are covered for all accidents and the nearest transportation, in case you do not have a car. Now, most of us are young and we cannot wait for the moment when we can have our new place looking like a pottery barn catalog picture. Reality check! That is a waste of money. Your first place is like a test dummy; you will learn how to handle things, including your finances. Try and take whatever furniture you can from your parents' home, because the less money spent, the better. Remember, it is important to understand that moving marks your independence, which means handling all unexpected situations on your own.

Moving is such an exciting time in every young adult's life, it is just important to understand what it takes. Put your big girl/boy pants on and make the needed sacrifices for this milestone. At times, it will feel like that final semester in your undergrad, where you just want to give up, but in the long run, it will pay off. Understand that each milestone requires work and dedication, and moving is definitely no different.