Growing up, I lived with my parents until I was 17, and life was incredibly comfortable. My mom’s delicious home-cooked meals were always a given, and I never had to worry about chores like laundry or cleaning my room. When I moved to a different city for higher studies and started hostel life, I quickly encountered the realities of the outside world.
The food was a stark contrast. I learned to eat not for pleasure, but for sustenance. This experience gave me what I now call an “iron stomach,” allowing me to eat and digest virtually anything without issue—a skill that has served me well ever since.
I also became truly independent. I learned to do my own laundry, clean my own room, and handle daily chores. This newfound responsibility gave me a deeper appreciation for my parents and the true meaning of home. The love and respect I have for them grew immensely after living on my own.
The Benefits of Living Away from Home
Beyond the practical skills, this journey taught me how to survive and thrive. I made true friends who have stayed with me through thick and thin. My time at home built a strong bond with my family, while my time in the hostel made me stronger and taught me to find joy and contentment with limited resources.
Based on my experience, I believe that a child should stay with their parents until at least age 16 to build a strong foundation of family bonds. After that, if feasible, giving them the chance to experience hostel life can be incredibly beneficial. It can help them become independent, resilient, and ready to face the world.
