Coming back from college, you probably have a few questions… Am I allowed to come and go as I please? Do I have a curfew again? Can I order pizza at 2 a.m.?
Being back at home, you’re going to have to deal with being told what to do again. Cleaning out your whole room and closet with mom, following household rules, and attending little sister’s soccer games are just a few out of the many things you’ll probably have to deal with. Maybe this doesn’t sound as fun as your college life, but we’ve got some tips to help you survive.
1. Their House, Their Rules
Moving back home can be daunting, especially since the only person you’ve had to report back to every night was your roommate. Freedom was something that you took complete advantage of and now it’s gone. You no longer can have whoever you want over whenever you want, you’ll get bothered constantly about those couple of T-shirts laying on the floor, and binge watching Grey’s Anatomy will no longer be acceptable…sounds awful doesn’t it? This is the time where you go back to living under your parents’ roof, a.k.a. your parents’ rules. You may technically be an adult, but it’s important to still have good manners towards your parents and make an effort to respect them. Your parents missed you dearly for those ten months that you were gone, so respect and spend time with them! Picking up those T-shirts or turning off Grey’s Anatomy to go grocery shopping with your mom won’t kill you…even though it may feel a lot like it at the time. Bottom line: just because you’re a college kid doesn’t give you the power to disregard your parents’ rules. The more you rebel, the more they will harp on you- respect them and freedom shall be given… let’s hope!
2. Compromise
Before trying to come home at 4 a.m. and expecting everything to be okay, talk to your parents about what they expect from you. You can make some compromises with them before all hell breaks loose…and so you don’t have to race home to make your curfew in five minutes when you’re 20 minutes away. That way, there are no surprises and you know how far you can go without pushing their buttons.
3. Find a Summer Fling
Remember that awkward “thing” you had with that guy before you left for school? The one you almost sent that god-awful double chin Snapchat to? Text him! I know this sounds like the #1 thing NOT to do, but honestly what do you have to lose? You’re home for three months, your life has changed as I’m sure his has, so get together and hang out! There is no harm in going on a couple of fun dates or just watching Breaking Bad for hours and hours. Worst thing that could happen is you find out he has a girlfriend… but fingers crossed that’s not the case!
4. Appreciate the Little Things
Cafeteria food, community bathrooms, laundry day…just thinking about all those annoying things brings goosebumps to my arms! But you’re home now! Your mom, being the saint that she is, has stocked the refrigerator full of your favorite snacks and dinners, your toilet is sparkling clean, your shower doesn’t require flip-flops, and your mom can wash your clothes and neatly fold them for you! Coming home was so bittersweet, but try to focus on the “sweet” aspect. Your parents were free from being your “slave” for ten months and it’s only a mother’s instinct to want to help her little baby whenever she gets the chance. Take time to appreciate her offer to make your favorite meal for dinner and keeping your bathroom spic-and-span. Don’t forget to say your please and thank yous!
5. Get a Job
Summer is a godsend, but you have to admit that it can get pretty boring at times. One can only watch so many episodes of Parks and Rec before turning into Leslie Knope. When you decide to quit your occupation as a couch potato, try looking around for a job that pays in something other than the excitement of clicking “Next Episode” on Netflix. What better way to prove to your parents that you have grown up and are able to live independently than having your own source of income. Not only making money, but managing it. Plus, having a job gives you an excuse to get out of the house and dodge mom asking for the millionth time why you don’t have a boyfriend.
6. Find New Hobbies
Pick up that book you’ve always wanted to read for fun but never had time to because of school work. Or, if reading for fun isn’t for you, there are plenty of other things to keep you busy. Grab a friend to be your summer workout buddy and find fun ways to stay in shape. If the inside of a gym sounds boring, find trails around your house that you can run or hike on. Swimming laps at a local pool or trying out a yoga class are other ideas. Get creative with it!
We hope these ideas help you survive and enjoy a summer back at home!