Congratulations! You’ve graduated from college and you’re ready to take on the world. Everything seems like it’s falling into place except for one little thing, you’re moving back in with the parentals.
AHH. Mayday! Mayday!
Although this might seem disastrous to your social life (and sanity), here are a couple of solutions to help resolve your issues.
1. Arguments.
Problem: Arguments are prone to happen now that you’re living at home. You probably don’t see eye-to-eye on various topics. This is especially true if you have a different approach to doing things around the house than your parents.
Solution: Don’t sweat the small stuff. Talk out your issues with your parents in a cool, calm, and collected manner. When speaking, use the “I feel” method to express yourself and clarify your points. This helps others walk in your shoes and understand your feelings and thoughts. Setup compromises if necessary so that issues are not brought up again in the future.
2. House work.
Problem: Living at home has been pretty chill. Laundry gets done. There’s food on your plate every night. Bills get paid. You don’t have a worry in the world. However, your parents are worried about YOU. They’re probably thinking you’re unappreciative, ungrateful, and need a cold, harsh dose of reality.
Solution: Open your drawer and put on your big girl underwear. You graduated college. You are now (supposedly) a responsible individual according to society. If that’s the case, why are you still allowing yourself to be treated as a child? Do your part! Pitch in around the house. Cook your family dinner every once in awhile. Pay a bill if you can afford it. Keep in the mind that they’ll appreciate little things as well. Simply buying flowers or washing their cars “just” because goes a long way.
3. Social life.
Problem: It’s Saturday night and you’re in the mood to get out of
Solution: Honesty is the best policy. Be open and frank about where you are going. Let them know who you’re going out with in advance. Keep in mind that they worry more about you now that you’re living at home because you’re under their watch again. You never know what can happen while you’re out, so shoot them a quick text when you arrive at your destination. You might not like “checking in” with them, but get over it. Remember you are their top priority. Period. Although your parents do have to understand that you’re an adult and can make your own decisions now, you have to respect them and be courteous of their thoughts and feelings. Bottom line: Be responsible and respect your parents.
4. Lack of space.
Problem: Since you’re living under their roof again, you feel like you don’t have any privacy or “me” time. With people constantly wanting to know your whereabouts and being all up in your business, you need some space.
Solution: Find an activity that will keep you out of the house. By doing so, you’ll spend less time at the house and more time exploring new hobbies and meeting people. Become a gym rat. Take up salsa dancing. Mentor little kids. There are endless opportunities out there waiting for you.
5. Job Searching.
Problem: Similar to the majority of recent grads, you don’t have a job and are drowning in student loans. It’s safe to assume your family isn’t making it better by nagging you to get a job.
Solution: It’s quite simple. Get a job! At this point, you need to make it your job to find a job. Dedicate some time everyday to be on the prowl. While you’re on the job hunt, share your progress with your family. Someone might have that connection you need to get your foot in the door. If you feel that finding a full-time job is nearly impossible, consider being a temp. You’ll gain experience and be able to try out different jobs. Also, consider creating your own job. If you have a skill that you can share with the universe and make a few bucks off of, werk it!
Problem: Zac Efron poster. Teddy bears. Cheerleading trophy. Pink walls. Looks like you’re moving back into your room from high school. Oh the memories. You might be an adult, but you’re still stuck in that high school mentality.
Solution: Your childhood days are over. It’s time for an upgrade. Your room needs to reflect your more mature side. You do have a degree for crying out loud! IKEA and Target have stylish, yet affordable, items to help you renovate. If you’re stuck on ideas, utilize Pinterest to inspire you to get your Nate Berkus on.
Remember that your parents just want what’s best for you. The adjustment will probably be hard at first, but it’s only temporary *fingers crossed*. If not, then you need to reevaluate a few things! ;)
(photo credit: Independent Collegian)
About the contributor: Alexandra Lemoine is an honors marketing graduate from the University of Central Florida. She has gained marketing experience from various well-known companies, which have shaped her into the young professional she is today. Her career aspiration is to work in a vibrant atmosphere where her drive and creativity can flourish as a Marketing Executive.Connect with her on Twitter at @AlexLems
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