This video is my real-time “living alone diaries” kickoff — and honestly, it’s way more than just moving boxes. I talk about the mindset shift that came with moving out at 26, especially as an Asian girl where moving out before marriage can be super frowned upon. A TikTok quote hit me hard: “Be nice to your parents as it’s also their first time living life,” and it made me reflect on how fast I can be reactive when my parents think differently. They were my role models, but they’re not perfect — and neither am I — and that realization helped me choose peace over constant tension. I also share the practical reasons I needed my own space: working from home means I need silence, and living with extended family made me feel unsafe and like I had to “put up a front” in my own home. I take you apartment viewing with me, how I weighed condo facilities vs actual living space (choose the space you’re living in), and why I decided to rent for flexibility — it’s my first-year trial and a blank canvas for my sanctuary. I ended up with a 2 bed, 2 bath (guest toilet is non-negotiable), one room as a studio, and I’m even flirting with cooking more… because yes, I made bak kut teh soup and it was actually so good.