What if it's Just You?

It's not something you think about much with your day to day routines. But there are many reasons why you may end up on your own: empty nesting, break-up or divorce, death of a loved one. Here are a few things to consider if you find yourself on a new path.

1. What's Your Budget?

You may be living on more or less money now. It's always a good idea to see where your money goes. If you are on your own, it will be the first thing you need to figure out. Your budget will determine how and where you live going forward.

2. How do you Want to Live?

Would you want to stay or move? Do you need or want a different type of home? Considerations obviously include costs, but also think about the amount of maintenance, access to family, work, medical care and other amenities.

3. What are your New Priorities?

Your goals may change with your future outlook. How you manage your time is now up to you. Think about possible new hobbies, or things in your life that have been neglected that you can now deal with.

Don't assume that your life can't or won't change. Be prepared for the possibility that it will be just you. Have your vital documents ready to avoid some of the stress if you do have a major life shift.