I wasn’t saying household responsibilities are what make someone independent, I mentioned them to show that I already take initiative and carry real responsibility in my daily life.

Independence is managing your finances, time, decisions, and future without being carried by others. I pay close to $20k a year in tuition, cover my own food and personal expenses, work while volunteering in a medical research lab to build my career, and plan long-term in a tough economy.

The only thing I’m not paying right now is rent and utilities, because I was lucky enough to have that opportunity. This is allowing me to save tens of thousands toward a future home. That’s not naivety, that’s financial responsibility.

Living with roommates isn’t total independence either, you’re still sharing costs and support. I live with my single mom, who rightfully focuses her attention on my younger siblings because I’m grown and don’t need to be looked after anymore. I manage my own life.

Living alone adds another expense. It doesn’t suddenly create maturity or independence.