How to master independence

You get to checkout, a handful of hangers all things that miraculously fit like a glove. Clothes you not only want but need, the new pair of jeans that will look amazing with the sweater already placed carefully in tissue paper ready to come home with you or the black dress that will be formal but casual enough for that first date you have next weekend. The sales person tells you your total and you annoyed bur readily hand over your card. The familiar blaring of the credit card machine shakes me out of my trance, I look at the sales person raising an eyebrow to be met with a warm “You’re all set! Have a great night!” from the cashier. As a wave of relief washes over me I take a silent moment to thank the paycheck that cleared into my account. 

The broke college student cliche is unfortunately one that’s true more often than not. Because of this my biggest advice would be to find some sort of part time job. I didn’t find the right place at first in fact I started off working at one of the most stressful jobs I’ve ever had. It was then I realized that just like everything else working is one of those things that needs to be a balance. If a job doesn’t fit your schedule or the level of stress you can afford to give something you need to consider finding something that’s a better fit. 

Quitting a job doesn’t mean you gave up, it means your pursuing the best situation for you. It’s not selfish to know that you prioritize a social life and school. I know that I’m at a point of my life where I need to value my mental/ physical health, grades, and social life in that order. When my first job was putting way too much pressure so I had to find a better situation.

A job in college was necessary for me, after my moms passing I’m now faced with paying for my apartment and college. I was lucky to have had a role model like her to instill the kind of work ethic I have, for as long as I did. Regardless of ones home life or family situation a job is something you can be proud of. I now work at a local boutique that’s the perfect fit for me and my needs while I’m in school. These jobs are hard to come by but it’s worth the search to find a good situation for yourself.

There’s no better feeling than looking at your bank account and being able to say that your hard work put that there. There’s a sense of pride when you know you can afford to get things you don’t necessarily need but you want. Work can be exciting and fulfilling, especially while in college. These years are the time to work on setting routines for yourself. 

To know that your card won’t be declined when you head to the register with a cart full of groceries is peace of mind. Being able to go out to dinner with your friends or grab Starbucks on your way to class are like little rewards. Finding the perfect situation that balancing with your schedule makes you feel like an adult, you feel independent.