How to Move Back in with Your Parents

For most adults, the idea of moving back in with their parents is more than horrifying; it is their worst nightmare. However, divorce, job loss, death, illness, and other unforeseen events can result in an adult having to enter through the door of their parent's home for a sudden, extended visit. Regardless of the reason you find yourself back at home or how upset you are by the reality of living once again with your parents, there are ways that you can assure an easy and painless transition for yourself and your parents. Follow the simple guidelines below, and moving back home will be an enjoyable experience instead of the horror flick you expect.

1. Remember, you are not the only one whose life has been disturbed. Thank your parents for their help, and try to be respectful of their feelings. If you have been away from home for a long time, you should bear in mind that they have formed their own habits and routines. Your coming home has complicated their lives; so remember to show gratitude for their help. You can never say thank you enough.

2. Refrain from trivial arguments. It is easy to get into arguments with family, especially when everyone is stressed out. Learn to walk away. No one likes everything their parent's say. So, stay away from topics that you know you will argue about. If you know that you and your parents disagree about politics or religion, don't bring up these topics. Keep the peace!

3. Don't leave your stuff all over the house. For example, don't leave your curling iron besides the sink; put it back where it belongs! If you take a shower, don't leave your clothes scattered on the bathroom floor. Pick them up! You're parents don't want to look at your mess. Respect their home, and clean up after yourself.

4. Even if you would rather sit in your old bedroom and mop about your life, participate in family activities. If your parents invite you to watch television with them or sit down for a meal, do it. Let them know that you appreciate their help, and you enjoy their company. If you treat your parents with the same respect and consideration you would a friend, they will want to help you.

5. Don't waste. Remember to cut of lights or unnecessary electronics such as radios when you leave a room. Conserve water; don't take five baths a day like you did when you were living on your own. It is important for you to remember that your moving back home is going to increase your parent's bills. So, do what you can to minimize bills.

6. Respect your parent's things. If you borrow something, you should be careful with it. For example, if you borrow a hairdryer, put it back were you find it. The better you treat your parent's things, the more likely they will be to let you use them.

7. Don't forget to help out around the house. Helping out with chores will make your parents less resentful of the disruption your moving home has caused. Don't ask your parents, "What can I do?" or "How can I help?" Instead, you should become a contributing member of their home. Look around and see what they need help with. It will amaze you how much they will appreciate it if you simple do a load of dishes or cook a few meals. Do the things around the house that you can see need to be done; then, they will see you as the responsible adult you feel you are instead of the child they remember.

8. Let your parents know what you are doing. If you decide to stay out let, give them a call to let them know. Parents are going to worry; so keep them informed about changes in your plans.

9. Ask your parents before you invite guests over to their home to visit you. Remember, it is their home and they may not want an unending line of visitors at their door. If you ask, you won't inadvertently ruin their planned night of relaxation. Respect their privacy, and they will respect yours.

10. If you are able to, you should find a job as quickly as possible. Show that you are working to improve your situation and become independent. If you can, you should contribute financially to the household. Buy some groceries, offer to pay rent, or put together those shelves your parents have been meaning to put together for the last two years. Again, do whatever you can to help your parents out. Consider: they are doing all they can for you; so you should do all you can for them.