Starting Over: Tips and Tricks for Moving Back Home After College

March 23, 2023 / Posted in Moving Tips
Milly Andrews

Born and raised in Portland, Milly has had a lot of experience moving and writing about the relocation process.

While it may seem like a step backward, relocating back with your parents can be an opportunity to start fresh and build a solid foundation for the future. However, moving back home after college can come with its own unique challenges. That’s why it’s important to approach it with a positive mindset and a few helpful tips up your sleeve. This guide will provide you with the tools you need to make the most of this new beginning.

College graduates at the graduation ceremony
Let's dive in and explore how to start over and thrive when relocating back home

Consider Moving Back Home After College as a New Opportunity

Rather than seeing it as a failure, it’s important to view this new chapter as it is – as a chance to save money and pursue new opportunities. Living at home can provide a sense of comfort and offer the opportunity to focus on finding a job or pursuing further education without the added stress of high rent and living expenses.

According to a 2020 study, more than half (52%) of young adults in the United States lived with their parents.

In the end, being able to spend time with loved ones and have a support system can be invaluable during this period of change and uncertainty.

Remember – there are many legitimate reasons to move back in with your parents! By approaching this transition with a positive mindset and a willingness to embrace new opportunities, you can create a fulfilling and meaningful experience.

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Before Anything Else, Hire Cross-Country Movers to Assist You During the Relocation

If you’re a recent graduate and planning to go back home for some time, hiring cross-country movers to help you with the relocation can be a great decision. Getting long-distance moving services will help you save time and effort by having professionals relocate your belongings safely and efficiently.

Not only that, but relocating to another state often involves long periods of driving, which can be tiring and stressful. With professional movers, you can leave the driving to them and be back home in a matter of hours. While there is an added relocation cost involved, the benefits far outweigh the expenses, especially for longer moves across the country.

Long-distance movers relocating boxes
Experience a less stressful and more efficient transition with the help of the right movers

Use as Many Long Distance Moving Services as You Can

If you plan on living at home after college, you should consider utilizing several services long-distance movers offer in order to make your relocation easier. For starters, note that professional movers can offer packing services, which can be extremely helpful when you need to transport your belongings across the country damage-free. They will make sure all of the items you accumulated over the years at college are packed safely to avoid breakage – and provide you with suitable insurance coverage.

Besides storage services you can use for items you’re not sure you wish to move, you can also ask for help when transporting a car. Instead of hiring a reliable car shipping company, it’s better to go with a team that is experienced in both relocation and car shipping services – such as Flat Price Moving & Auto Transport company.

While getting additional services is not the cheapest way to move out of state and can take its toll on your relocation budget, consider how much you’ll be able to reduce the physical and emotional burden of a stressful experience such as a long-distance move.

Establish Boundaries as Soon as You Move Back

Establishing boundaries with your family is an important part of your post-relocation experience, necessary to avoid any potential conflicts. Living with family members again can be a significant change, and it’s essential to communicate your needs and expectations with them to create a comfortable living situation for everyone involved. Discuss your schedule, your need for personal space, and your plan to contribute to household expenses.

It might be tough, but it’s crucial to be honest about your expectations. For example, if you’re a night owl and need time to yourself to recharge, tell them. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck with your mom’s 6 AM wake-up calls and the sound of your siblings bickering over breakfast. Remember – communication is key. The more open and honest you are with your family, the easier it’ll be to set boundaries and coexist peacefully.

Additionally, keep in mind that creating a designated space for yourself, whether it’s a room or a corner of a shared space, can help you maintain a sense of independence and privacy. This can also help your family members understand your need for personal space and respect it. However, it’s important to note that setting boundaries doesn’t mean isolating yourself from your family members.

Tips on How to Communicate Your Needs and Expectations Effectively

Creating a comfortable and harmonious living situation should be your goal after relocating back to your hometown. Here are some relocation hacks that can help you master communication with your family:

  • Be clear and specific – avoid misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
  • Listen actively – effective communication is a two-way street, and active listening can help you build trust and respect and create a more collaborative living situation.
  • Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements – for example, instead of saying, “You never give me any privacy,” say, “I need some privacy to recharge after a long day.”
  • Be willing to compromise and find solutions that work for everyone – this can help you build stronger relationships with your family members.
  • Follow up – check in with your family members regularly to see how things are going and if any adjustments need to be made.

By creating an open and honest dialogue with your family, you can build stronger relationships and enjoy a more comfortable living situation.

Father and son talking after cross-country moving
While it may be challenging to communicate your needs and expectations effectively, the payoff is worth it

When Living at Home After College, Try to Be a Contributing Member of the Household

When planning a relocation back home as a recent graduate, it’s important to remember that you will be a member of a household, and with that comes certain responsibilities. So that your parents can see you as equal (or close to it), it’s essential to be a contributing member of the household, both financially and in terms of chores and responsibilities.

Tips on How to Help Out With Household Chores, Bills, and Other Responsibilities

First of all, offer to take on household chores such as doing the dishes or laundry. It’s a win-win situation – you get to show off your newfound domestic skills, and your parents won’t feel the need to nag. On the other hand, if you want to make your parents feel like they’ve raised a responsible adult, offer to pay your share of the bills.

If you’re a foodie or just love to cook, offer to go grocery shopping and help prepare meals. Additionally, try to contribute to household purchases of necessities like cleaning supplies, groceries, or appliances.

Contributing to your household will not only help ease the burden on your parents or guardians, but it can also help you prepare when you decide to move to a new city alone in the future and live on your own.

Stay Organized as Much as You Can

This type of relocation can be a hectic and overwhelming experience, so it’s essential to stay organized to make the most of your time and energy. Establishing a routine can help you stay on track and prioritize tasks – so make sure it’s one of the things to do after relocation. This can include creating a schedule for job searching, household chores, and personal hobbies.

You should also consider using organizational tools and apps to keep track of your schedule and tasks. Additionally, note that setting short-term and long-term goals can help you stay focused and motivated. Write down your goals and track your progress to stay on top of your priorities.

A woman making a list after a long-distance moving
By staying organized, you can make the most of your time at home and set yourself up for success

Keep Pursuing Your Goals

Even when it’s time to relocate back home, you can continue networking with people and making connections in your chosen field. Consider attending virtual events and webinars, as well as following organizations and individuals on LinkedIn – all from the comfort of your home.

Additionally, consider taking online courses so you can help stay up-to-date in your field or explore new interests. In the end, don’t let the comforts of home distract you from your goals. Try to limit social media and unproductive activities that could derail your focus. Relocating back home doesn’t mean your goals should be put on hold. In fact, it’s an opportunity to build a strong foundation that will help you achieve success once you are ready to spread your wings again.

A girl working on a computer after a long-distance moving
Networking can lead to new ideas, job opportunities, or even access to mentorship

Ensure You Keep Your Social Life Alive

This type of cross-country moving can often mean relocating away from friends and leaving the social life you built during your college years. However, it’s important to ensure that you keep your social life alive when you relocate back home. After you move back in with your parents, you can try joining organizations in your area, meet neighbors with similar interests, and make friends. This can include sports teams, book clubs, or volunteer organizations.

Attending various events, such as concerts or festivals, can be an excellent way to meet someone and get involved in the local community. This relocation can also be an opportunity to reconnect with old friends you may have lost touch with. Remember – building a social life takes time and effort, but it’s an essential aspect of maintaining your mental health and well-being.

If you need more advice on how to create a great social life after the relocation, take a look at the following video:

Going Back Home Can Be a Great Way to Achieve Goals

Relocating back with your parents can be a great way to take a breather while also taking steps towards achieving your goals. Checking into the comforts of home is the perfect opportunity to network, set realistic goals, create a routine, and keep learning. It’s also an excellent way to spend time with family and build stronger relationships.

With a strong plan in place and a focus on success, going back home can provide you with the resources and motivation to achieve your goals and grow as an individual. Therefore, if you plan to organize this type of relocation, feel free to contact us – and let our long-distance moving company secure a stress-free start to this new chapter of your life.

FAQ

What Are the Benefits of Moving Back Home After College?

Relocating to your old place can provide several relocation benefits, such as saving money on rent, having a support system, and being able to focus on getting a job or pursuing further education. Living at home can also provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, which can be beneficial during the transition to true adulthood.

How Can I Communicate My Needs and Expectations to My Family When Moving Back Home After College?

It is important to have an open and honest conversation. Discuss your schedule, privacy, and any financial contributions you plan to make toward household expenses. Establishing boundaries and respecting each other’s personal space and lifestyle choices is essential so you can avoid problems down the road.

How Can I Contribute to the Household When Moving Back Home After College?

One way to contribute to the household is by helping with household chores and responsibilities. This can include cooking meals, doing laundry, and cleaning. Additionally, contributing financially to household expenses can also be a way to show appreciation and responsibility.

How Can I Stay Organized When Moving Back Home After College?

To stay organized, it can be helpful to establish a routine and prioritize tasks. This can include creating a schedule for job searching, household chores, and personal hobbies. Utilizing organizational tools such as calendars and to-do lists can also be helpful.

What Should I Do if I Can't Find a Job After Moving Back Home After College?

If job searching proves to be difficult, it is important to continue to network and seek out opportunities. This can include volunteering, attending job fairs, and utilizing online job search platforms. Seeking guidance from career counselors can also be helpful.

How Can I Maintain My Independence When Moving Back Home After College?

To maintain independence, it is important to establish boundaries and communicate your needs and expectations to your family. Additionally, pursuing personal hobbies and interests and creating a space of your own can also be beneficial.

What Are Some Ways to Meet New People When Moving Back Home After College?

Ways to meet new people can include joining local clubs or organizations, volunteering, taking classes, and attending community events. Additionally, online platforms and social media can be helpful tools for connecting with others in your area.

How Can I Deal With the Stigma of Moving Back Home After College?

It can be helpful to focus on the positive aspects of the experience, such as saving money and having a support system. Additionally, reminding yourself that many people experience similar situations and that relocating back to your parents is often a practical choice can also be helpful.

How Long Should I Stay at Home After Moving Back Home After College?

The length of time that you stay at home can vary depending on individual circumstances. It can be helpful to establish goals and a timeline for your personal and professional development and adjust your plans accordingly.

What Are Some Tips for Making the Most of the Experience of Moving Back Home After College?

Relocation tips for making the most out of your time at home include setting goals and prioritizing personal and professional development, establishing a routine and maintaining healthy habits, and maintaining open communication and boundaries with family members. Additionally, taking advantage of opportunities for personal growth can also be beneficial.

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