I've been on my own since july 2010. Some of it was well documented on sohh and I got clowned by nikka's who probably living with they girl, or with they grandma. fukk em!
1) Create a savings account and DO NOT TOUCH IT!!!!!!! If you get any bonuses/tips from work, dump that shyt right in there and let it grow.
2) Always Pay power/gas bills on time. They give you back your security deposit after a year as credit if you do. Didn't have to pay each for a period of 2/3 months respectively.
3) Use plastic grocery bags as trash, if it just you, you shouldn't accumulate a lot of trash. By using smaller bags, you keep down on the smell of trash as well because your dumping daily/every other day
4) If you have a w/d connection, get one off craigslist for the low ($200 to $300 for a set). It'll save you money in the long run instead of using on-site
5) Take advantage of free cable if offered. Saved me $80 a month
6) Cut your cell phone bill and go unlimited
7) Pay off all small debts if possible
8) NEVER........EVER SPEND RENT MONEY!
9) If you need new furniture, go to ikea and a furniture depot. Avoid rent-a-center, aarons and all those places NO MATTER WHAT! If your girl on your ass, don't give in. Just stay the course and save the money for what you want bruh