This past semester, I bid adieu to typical dorm-style living and said hello to a new apartment complex near my campus. Upon receiving the keys, I was filled with a mix of thoughts and emotions. I pictured myself becoming best friends with neighbors across the hall like those in my favorite sitcoms. I envisioned making my room a little sanctuary for relieving stress, binge-watching trending Netflix originals, or even just crossing things off on my to-do list. I imagined decorating the common area with fun printed throw pillows.

Then the image gradually developed into me not taking out the trash or forgetting to pay the rent in a timely manner. However, my excitement overpowered my apprehension and little bit of fear. After all, living on my own (with a trusty roommate, of course) meant no more resident advisors, small bathrooms, and shared bedrooms.

I quickly learned that this new lifestyle would reveal some quirks and oddities. Both of us were free to choose how we wanted to use and decorate our respective living spaces. Several different scented candles? Check. Small karaoke machine we found online? Check. Designate a cabinet drawer as a “pasta drawer?” Check.

With the start of December just around the corner, it’s only right that we seek advice from Home Alone’s reliable Kevin McAllister. Whether you’re living with a roommate(s) or flying solo, there are a few key takeaways we can all learn from this classic film. Looking for a gift to give your Home Alone fanatic? Check out Hello Giggle’s movie-inspired shopping guide.

Here are four tips to keep in mind when living on your own.

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About the Movie

Directed by Chris Columbus, Home Alone (1990) is a comedy starring Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, an eight-year-old who spends his Christmas defending his home from burglars after he’s accidentally left home alone.