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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Samantha Wood

Adulting 101 – seven expert tips to make life’s milestone moments easier

Happy multiethnic family having fun and drawing at home.
Life’s big events are often a step into the unknown. Photograph: Santi Nuñez/Stocksy United

Whether you’re quick to shout about the big stuff on social media, or prefer to go about things more privately, there are a handful of milestone moments in life that are likely to leave their mark on you for ever. Like saying goodbye to your Care Bear wallpaper when you leave home, finally buying your own property or deciding to shake up your life irrevocably and have children. But do any of us really know how to best prepare? Probably not. That’s why we asked these experts for their number one tips to make adulting that bit easier.

Moving out of the family home
Ronnie Campbell, a chartered surveyor and managing director at London Building Surveyors, says that when young people leave home they are often so desperate for their independence that they forget to reach out and connect with those in their new community. “Although you’re now standing on your own two feet, I’d really advise knocking on your neighbours’ doors and introducing yourself because they’re the ones you may need to call on if there’s an emergency, or when you just need a hand with something,” he says. “I’d also suggest asking around for recommended local tradespeople so you have a list ready, for those times when you need help in a hurry.”

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