Meet the Parents

If you are moving back home with your parents, talk to them about your expectations and how long you plan to stay there. Kristy Jackson, the post college editor of Bellaonline.com, recommends you “think about why you are moving home. Are you staying there for a few weeks until you get a final offer on a job? Waiting for graduate school to start?” She suggests setting a timeline for your departure. If you have a timeline, “it’ll keep you motivated, since it’s easy to stagnate if your folks are footing the bills for the indefinite future.”

You should also talk to your parents about how expenses will be handled while you’re looking for a job. Offer to pay rent—if you have a part-time job, offer to pay part of your parents’ mortgage. Make sure to discuss schedules, as well, since your occasional 3 a.m. evenings out with your best friend may not fit into your parents’ sleep schedule. Don’t let your parents baby you, but don’t go in with demands; your parents are opening their home to you, once again. Do your best to accommodate their wishes and rules. Laying this groundwork early will make your stay at home that much more bearable.

For those who may already have their own place, this same advice applies. If you have roommates, talk about your expectations and split the expenses. Do your best to maintain a regular schedule and keep your finances in check. Stay in touch with your parents and update them on your life as a true adult.