Everyone should learn to live alone physically, mentally, and emotionally. This is crucial for young people before their 30s. They should experience this before committing to serious responsibilities like marriage or parenthood (which are not the same thing).

The experience of living independently involves finding a place to live. It includes cooking your own meals, doing your own laundry, and cleaning your home. You also deal with illness and everyday problems. Just as importantly, it entails managing personal finances. This is essential training before building a household. Many young people, especially in Latin America, transition directly from the comfort and ease of their parents’ home. They face the harsh reality of family life and raising children directly. The contrast is stark, and many don’t pass the test.

Everyone should experience living alone at least once in their life. It is even better if it’s in another city, far from one’s parents. That way, many young people will truly appreciate having a home. They will also understand how much it costs to lose one.