2 answers
Madison
Student
Nampa, Idaho
2
Questions
Updated
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What steps to take to begin living on your own after high school?
As a high school student, what are some steps I need to take to begin living on my own. Balancing career and personal life. Especially as someone who wants a career in the performing arts, which can be high stress.
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2 answers
Kate Wang
PM
12
Answers
Dalian, Liaoning, China
Updated
Kate’s Answer
When I first started living on my own after high school, the biggest challenge wasn’t paying bills or doing laundry — it was figuring out how to manage my time and energy. I thought I had to hustle nonstop, especially since I was chasing something creative, but I quickly learned that rest is part of the process, not a break from it.
One thing that helped was creating a daily routine, even a loose one. I’d set blocks of time for rehearsals or auditions, but also made sure to schedule meals, short walks, or time to just zone out. I also kept a little whiteboard to track my priorities for the week — it kept me from spiraling when things got hectic.
There were nights I ate instant noodles and wondered what I was doing — but there were also moments where I nailed a performance or made a connection, and it reminded me why I was doing it. Learning to live on your own is like learning a new role — you might stumble at first, but you grow into it, scene by scene.
Suggestions:
Learn to budget, cook simple meals, manage time, and do basic chores. Get a part-time job if you can — it teaches responsibility and money management. For performing arts, start creating a routine that balances practice, rest, and fun, because burnout is real. Surround yourself with a support system, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Living on your own is a big step — but with planning and self-awareness, you can thrive both personally and creatively.
One thing that helped was creating a daily routine, even a loose one. I’d set blocks of time for rehearsals or auditions, but also made sure to schedule meals, short walks, or time to just zone out. I also kept a little whiteboard to track my priorities for the week — it kept me from spiraling when things got hectic.
There were nights I ate instant noodles and wondered what I was doing — but there were also moments where I nailed a performance or made a connection, and it reminded me why I was doing it. Learning to live on your own is like learning a new role — you might stumble at first, but you grow into it, scene by scene.
Suggestions:
Learn to budget, cook simple meals, manage time, and do basic chores. Get a part-time job if you can — it teaches responsibility and money management. For performing arts, start creating a routine that balances practice, rest, and fun, because burnout is real. Surround yourself with a support system, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Living on your own is a big step — but with planning and self-awareness, you can thrive both personally and creatively.
Roujean Sabouri
Director of Sales Enablement
16
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Roujean’s Answer
I still remember the first time I moved into my own apartment—it was exciting, but also a little overwhelming. I wasn’t sure if I was “ready,” but one thing that helped me the most was learning how to budget.
No matter what career path you’re taking—whether it’s performing arts or something else—getting comfortable with your money is key. Especially when your income might fluctuate or come in bursts (which is pretty common in creative fields).
1. Learn to Budget Early: Even before I was fully on my own, I created a simple spreadsheet to track what I was earning, what I was spending, and what I needed for essentials. I still use a version of that today! More recently, I started using Quicken Simplifi to really understand my spending patterns—it’s super helpful. It’s all about knowing the delta—the difference between what’s coming in and what’s going out. That’s what helps you stay in control and avoid surprises.
2. Know Your Essentials vs. Nice-to-Haves: There will always be things you want—but when you’re living on your own, you have to get clear on what you need first. I always budget for rent, groceries, and bills before anything else. Everything after that is extra.
3. Create Space for Yourself, Not Just Your Work: When I first started working, I thought I had to hustle 24/7. But over time, I realized that rest, meals, movement, and connection are not optional—they’re necessary. Especially in high-stress careers like performing arts, building in time to recharge helps you show up stronger and stay in it for the long run.
I hope you find this helpful, and best of luck!
No matter what career path you’re taking—whether it’s performing arts or something else—getting comfortable with your money is key. Especially when your income might fluctuate or come in bursts (which is pretty common in creative fields).
1. Learn to Budget Early: Even before I was fully on my own, I created a simple spreadsheet to track what I was earning, what I was spending, and what I needed for essentials. I still use a version of that today! More recently, I started using Quicken Simplifi to really understand my spending patterns—it’s super helpful. It’s all about knowing the delta—the difference between what’s coming in and what’s going out. That’s what helps you stay in control and avoid surprises.
2. Know Your Essentials vs. Nice-to-Haves: There will always be things you want—but when you’re living on your own, you have to get clear on what you need first. I always budget for rent, groceries, and bills before anything else. Everything after that is extra.
3. Create Space for Yourself, Not Just Your Work: When I first started working, I thought I had to hustle 24/7. But over time, I realized that rest, meals, movement, and connection are not optional—they’re necessary. Especially in high-stress careers like performing arts, building in time to recharge helps you show up stronger and stay in it for the long run.
I hope you find this helpful, and best of luck!