Failure To Launch?

Recently I was interviewed for a piece in The Denver Post about my experiences and thoughts about what its like to "return to the nest" after receiving my college degree. Having returned to my parent's house both times I received a piece of sheepskin, it's obvious that I have no qualms with the idea. However most of society, especially the members of the "unloved generation," tend to look down on this practice. Why? For all of the stigmas that come with it, moving back in with your parents has so many perks to it. While living in a place where the fridge is open 24/7 and the washing machine doesn't take quarters are obvious benefits, having an in-house support system may be the biggest and most important one.

Most of you know that I'm from South Carolina. And from what the media portrays, you probably know that my state's education system is lacking, unemployment numbers are climbing, and leaders are less than competent. Living here is kinda like being in Ohio, but without the snow and darkness. But even with all that stacked against me, I think I've done very well for myself. And so have a fair amount of my friends. Why? Well, I'm not sure, but I like to think that one reason is because our parents took time with us - before, during, and after we stopped being children.

My folks happily welcomed me back home both times I moved back in. They've told me more times than I can count, "if you can't go anywhere else, you can always come back home." That statement is a far cry from what I've heard from countless friends, who were kicked out of their home the second they turned 18 or graduated high school. I'm all for teaching personal responsibility, but I've always seen the move of forcing your kids out before they're ready to leave as inadvertently setting them up for failure. Life's already hard. Why make it harder?

So sure, us Millenials may be looked at as being soft for not being able to suck it up and fend for ourselves, but most of us look at it as making the smartest move possible. The thing is, most of our boomer parents look it the same way. If moving home for a few months provides the flexibility to job search in peace, apply for graduate school, or just save up some money, then why not do it? When done correctly, those few months back in the nest can provide a solid foundation to build a great future upon.

Hopefully, I remember these thoughts when my kids move back in with me then have the gall to ask for $1,000 to move out.