Did you ever, at one point in your teenage life say that one day I’ll be 18 and able to be free? At age 16, I couldn’t wait two more years to be able to move out of my house. Rules at my house were darker than a black hole. My cell phone was taken away by 8 pm. In addition, if I wanted to go out, I would have to ask for permission a month in advance. I got a job, and started to save my money. As I got older y parents were less strict. I was able to keep my phone the entire day. I had the ability to ask for permission for same day outings. I was able to stay out until 11:00 pm. I realized, at this time, I wanted to be fully independent. I was responsible, made it on time to work and purchased my own car. I believe in independence.
I understood the difference between right and wrong. I demonstrated my ability of being responsible by obtaining and maintaining a job. Having a job made me realize that the way I was thinking was more mature. I noticed I had a commitment that I have to follow. I noticed I could fully be independent. I thought to my self,” I can be responsible and keep up with my job.” I then sought more independence. My next step was to build credit. I was approved for a student credit card. With my credit card, I made my payments on time, didn’t go over my limit, and only used it when needed.
As time went by I turned 18 and decided to move out of my house. The positive aspects were freedom of choice, caring for my own needs, and paying my own bills. Freedom of choice was deciding to go out with whomever and without curfew. I bought my own style of clothing and hygiene products. I’m paying my own bills such as rent, credit cards, car payment, and insurance. The negative aspects of being independent are that I can’t rely on anybody to pay my bills, monitor my spending, or cook like my mother. My parents don’t pay my bills. I monitor and reduce my spending habits. Furthermore, I miss my mom’s home cooking and have gained a couple of extra pounds due to buying fast food daily.
Independence has increased my maturity level and has given me the ability to grow into an adult. Being an adult provides a higher level of respect in society and assisting me move towards professional careers. In addition, independence has amplified my self-esteem and I feel capable of pursuing commitments that require extensive responsibility. I really truly believe in independence.