How to Start “Flying the Nest”

Like many things in life, independence can be ambiguous. As teenagers, we especially seek more independence in many areas of our lives. During this time period, we usually spend more time with our friends and away from home. So, many of us ask ourselves, How do I start “flying the nest?” 

In order to adjust to our new independence, we may start to spend less time at home. In turn, our parents will make adjustments of their own; if we act responsibly and establish trust, they may lessen restrictions and allow for later curfews. Eventually, as we spend less time in our homes—environments in which we are comfortable—we grow more independent and learn to adapt to new areas. 

Around the age of seventeen, the average teen gets their license, which makes leaving home a lot simpler. Whether they have their own car or they share a car with a family member, a license allows a teen to go out without having to rely on an adult to drive them from point A to point B. Traveling independently provides a significant degree of freedom; as long as the teen remains safe and responsible, they will no longer experience the constant supervision of a parent. 

After we go through these stages, and build trust with our parents, officially “flying the nest” should be an easy transition. We will be able to adapt to new environments, to rely on ourselves rather than on our parents, and to stay safe on our own. These skills will come in handy from high school into adulthood, whether it be college or even a long trip. Therefore, independence is one of the most important gifts that a teenager can receive.