So you’re back at home, living with your parents. Maybe that wasn’t part of the plan, and perhaps that’s not the way you’d like to live forever. Maybe you’re saving money to go back to school, or perhaps you just went through a breakup and had to vacate your shared apartment. Moving back home might not be the dream. However, there’s no reason not to make the best out of the situation at present. Living with your parents as an adult doesn’t have to be frustrating. In fact, it can be fun! Here are some helpful tips for making the best of this living arrangement.
Set Boundaries Before Moving In
Before you return to your family abode, have an honest discussion about what you and your parents expect. You can start the conversation by asking your mom(s) and/or dad(s) what they’d like the arrangement to look like. For example, do they want you to seek permission before raiding their refrigerator? Which chores should you be doing? How many nights a week do they expect you to enjoy a family dinner together? Once you know what your parents would like from you, you should take the opportunity to articulate your preferences. When we decide what a living arrangement should look like before we enter into it, everyone is on the same page. Avoid conflict by making sure everyone is living with the same expectations.
Surprise Your Parents Sometimes!
It’s important to follow the rules. For example, set up a google alert for when it’s your turn to take out the garbage! However, it’s also nice to surprise your parents with unexpected gestures. Bake brownies, or maybe help them set up their Apple TV without being asked. Something as simple as shoveling the driveway without being asked can make all the difference. All it takes is a few sweet gestures, and your parents will never want you to leave!
Take Regular Breaks From Each Other
Calm down! I’m not saying you have to move out for weeks at a time or give your dad the silent treatment for a month. Just like you never wanted to spend every single second with your university roommate, you and your parents need breaks from each other, too. Just because you literally emerged from your mother’s body, that doesn’t mean she always wants you in her space. Try to get out of the house a few nights a week. Whether you head out to da club or read a book in the park, some time apart can make all the difference in the world.
Don’t Tiptoe Around Each Other
While you should be respectful of each other, you don’t want to treat one another with kid gloves. Being on your best, most formal behaviour can be exhausting. Don’t be afraid to sing in the shower or sleep late on the weekends. You shouldn’t feel obligated to hang out with your folks each night. It’s fine to spend a night sequestered in your room binge-watching Netflix. Just because you’re living with your parents, that doesn’t mean you’re a kid again! Be considerate, but don’t completely change your lifestyle!
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