You went away to school, you started building your own life, did well and then the recession hit. As jobs became fewer and farther between, you find yourself moving back with your parents, just for the time being. More and more young adults are moving home with their parents to ride out the recession and bide their time between fullat least for now.
Why am I Doing This Again?
You've gotten used to your independence, and now comes the challenge of taking what seems like steps backwards. If you find yourself in the position of being at your parents' for an extended period of time, particularly if you're unemployed, this can be a frustrating experience.
Even if you have a good relationship with your parents, staying at their home for a long period of time is not healthy. Don't worry, as long as you stay focused and motivated, it doesn't have to last forever. Below is our guide to making the most of your time with your parents... the second time around.
The Bright Side
Getting By
In my own sojourn through my time at my parents, I've sought to think of it as a golden opportunity for selfRoad'>Looking Down the Road). Remember, '''it's all about staying active'''.
Free Your Mind
Cultivate a New Hobby
We all know what it's like to be forced to move your personal interests to the backspending activity.
Focus on Your Career
Talk to Your Friends and Meet New People
Exercise
As mentioned above, exercising is both good for the body and the mind. It has an abundance of positive benefits, including releasing endorphins (natural brain chemicals that make you happy), losing weight and being fit, and boosting your self-confidence. Developing an active routine will help pass the time and keep your energy levels up so that you can search for that dream job you've been wanting. If you aren't already involved in a consistent exercise routine, now is the time to start! Here are a few suggestions.
Make the Most of Your Situation
Pick your cliche: count your blessings, look on the bright side, things could be much worse, etc. Although these phrases are said with a tired inflection, they're absolutely right in this case. You're a lot better off actually having a roof over your head than being homeless and trying to look for professional work from there. Since you're living with mom and dad, you might as well make the most of it: spend some good quality time with them at regular intervals. It's lucky for you that your parents are even allowing you to room with them during this interim period in your life, so prove to them that you're staying active and trying to make them proud. However, in the meantime, it's important that you demonstrate your gratitude for their generosity.
Looking Down the Road
'''One big livingtime independence, but know that you will get there and that the best is yet to come.
Tips
'''Be Considerate'''. Even though you've been living on your own for a while, Mom just realized that you ride the subway alone and wants advance notice when you'll be back late. (As my mother would iterate, post-college, "I can't sleep when I know you're out all night.") On that note, it may help to form a contract with your parents: you're an adult now, and it should go without saying that you'll perform certain chores or possibly pay rent in exchange for houseroom.
'''Appreciate this time'''. This is one boon of the Age of the Boomerang Childthat's priceless.
