June 17 2021
If you’re planning on moving back in with the parents, whether short or long-term, there are ways to make the process more bearable for everyone. For many, it’s simply a case of needs must, but it can be a traumatic crossroads, so these tips aim to make the experience a positive one. No matter the cause of your move, you’re not alone in the endeavour. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), around 3.6 million adults lived at home with their parents in 2021. So whatever journey you’re on, just remember that things will get better. In the meantime, here’s how to make the transition a little easier.
1. Remind yourself this is normal
2. Establish a clear vision and plan
3. Take the ‘basics’ with you
4. Contribute by paying your way
5. Respect their house rules
6. Set some boundaries
7. Stick to your daily routine
8. Help with bills and chores
9. Keep your social life intact
10. Make the most of your time living with them
Tip #1 – Remind yourself this is normal
If your parents are also your housemates, try not to fret, you’re actually in good company. In other parts of the world, this is simply the norm, and many adults live with their parents for a variety of reasons.
Tip #2 – Establish a clear vision and plan
Although the prospect of moving back in with your parents may feel overwhelming at first, having a plan will help you stay bang on track. Whether that’s to land a more reliable job or to save enough money to get
your own place, a general idea of what you’re trying to accomplish will keep you looking ahead. If you also have a timeline, that’s great but don’t pressure yourself – small victories will give you the momentum you need to keep going. And lastly, don’t forget to keep your parents informed of your plans, they might even be able to help in some way. Remember, with change comes opportunity.
Tip #3 – Take the ‘basics’ with you
Obviously, your reasons for moving back home will affect how you pack but try to stick to the essentials only. The chances are, you’ll be living in one or two rooms, so only take what you need – the last thing you want is to feel suffocated. A declutter will also simplify packing and save you some time on both ends of the journey. Likewise, self storage can be a cost-effective method for temporarily storing your things. You don’t want to part with anything that could be useful later.
Tip #4 – Contribute by paying your way
There’s no doubt living with parents has its upsides, and one advantage is that you could save a lot of money long-term. But what are people paying their parents on average? Have a read of this post – here; you’ll find a survey by Confused.com. Paying a mortgage or rent is all part of being an adult, and it’s no different if you move back in to live with your parents. To get an idea of their expectations, however, you’re best to sit them down for a chat. Surprisingly, some parents choose not to charge their grown-up children rent.
Tip #5 – Respect their house rules
Every family has a different dynamic; it depends on the home, but what they have in common are the house rules. Can you have your friends over to stay, and how will meals work? Knowing what’s allowed and what’s not will avoid any confusion.
Tip #6 – Set some boundaries
A lack of boundaries can feel draining, invasive and quite stressful. Just as you need to respect your parent’s house rules, you need to set boundaries too and encourage them to do the same with you. Here are some ideas to help you stay on good terms.
- Have a knock policy – if your door is closed or vice versa, it’s no longer appropriate to just walk straight in.
- Don’t feel like you need to include them in everything – if you’re planning a weekend away, it’s ok to leave your parents at home. As the saying goes, absence makes the heart grow fonder. By respecting each other’s spare time, you’ll maintain a healthier bond, and you’ll have something else to talk about too.
- Explain your wish to be treated like a responsible adult – although your mum may have ironed your clothes back when you were ten, it’s not up to her to be doing it now. Still, don’t be surprised at the odd home-cooked meal; she’s still your mum after all, and you could always repay her by returning the favour.
- Some things don’t need to be said – despite the fact that your dad is downstairs, keep that marital spat between you; it’s not beneficial to fill your parents in on every detail.
Tip #7 – Stick to your daily routine
Although things feel a little unsettled right now, normality will resume soon, so try to maintain your old routine as much as you can. Not only will this help you stay sane, but when the time comes to move out, you’ll have an easier time readjusting.
Tip #8 – Help with household chores
Ever had a housemate before? The same guidelines apply for a cleaner, happier home. By pitching in on things like food shopping and chores, you’ll be doing your bit, and it won’t come as a shock when you eventually leave. Even if you’re not in a position to help out financially, you can still make a difference – there’s always a job or two to do. If you’ve time, it makes sense to take the dog for a walk or even water the plants; here are some other ways that you can contribute too:
- Laundry duty – having a system in place will make laundry duty a breeze, whether you prefer to do it weekly or a little each day.
- Family errands – run out of fresh veg? Offer to pop to the shop; your parents will appreciate it.
- Bathroom cleaning – it helps to get into a weekly routine, especially if you have kids; simply choose a day and take your time with it.
- Kitchen upkeep – emptying the dishwasher and wiping worktops are both a part of everyday life.
- Garden Maintenance – weekly mowing is the general rule, but some lawns need cutting more often.
- DIY – are you a dab hand at woodwork or great with a paintbrush? You could tackle those projects they’ve been meaning to do.
- Vacuuming floors – if you have pets, you may want to vacuum a few times each week.
Tip #9 – Keep your social life intact
It’s ok if the idea of moving back home feels a little overwhelming at times; change is perfectly normal to be apprehensive about. One way to ensure a sense of normality each week? Make sure you go ahead with those plans. In order to stay sane, you need to maintain your independence too. That means if you’re used to hitting the gym, make sure you still go and don’t feel like you have to turn down those after-work drinks with your colleagues, either. Yes, you might need to make a few little adjustments under mum and dad’s roof, but it doesn’t mean you have to feel incredibly miserable.
Tip #10 – Make the most of your time living with them
Speaking of getting out and about, why not invite mum and dad too? In fact, when was the last time you went to a restaurant together? Sure, it’s healthy to have your own space, but family meals are fun too, and getting out with both of them can be a wonderful thing.
If you’re facing a little less space, our self storage units can help – click here to find your nearest location. And, remember, no matter what has led you back home, try and make the most of this time. Oh, and hug the family dog as much as you can.
