Write down your reasons for wanting to move. For example, you can have things like “better educational opportunities for me and job chances for dad,” or it could be something like “the house is too big for mom to care for. ” It also helps if you have relatives where you are planning to move, with something like “closer to grandma and grandpa. " Your argument will be more compelling if you share your reasons and explain how they connect to your values. Consider keeping a list of pros and cons for moving. Think about factors such as expenses, losing friends, gaining new opportunities or helping shoulder burdens.
Avoid being pushy. At times that are not rushed, mention that moving might make life a little better or easier. [3] X Research source For example, you could say “mom, maybe we both wouldn’t be so frantic to leave every morning if we didn’t live so far from school” or “dad, maybe you’d have more energy if you didn’t have such a large space to care for. ” Point out potential new places when you’re out. For example, say to your mom and dad when you’re headed to the grocery store, “wow, look at everything in this neighborhood: schools, stores, restaurants, and it’s so much closer to your jobs. ”[4] X Research source You can also say “wow, this assisted living facility has so many amenities and is really close to our house. ”[5] X Research source
Go online for places you might like to live or move. Use these as a part of the hints you subtly drop hints. Keep in mind elements such as finances when you’re searching. You may not be aware of your parents’ financial situation and how your suggestions affect them emotionally and possibly financially. Research new places to live at a variety of price points. [7] X Research source Keep notes on different places so that you can convincingly present them. For example, if you want to move to a different city, you could include things like the standard cost of housing and living, the overall health profile of the place, and the advantages it presents to you over the current place you live. [8] X Research source
Have the discussion when you’re less likely to be interrupted. [10] X Research source Start the conversation with your observations and concerns about staying and the reasons you would like your parents to consider moving. [11] X Research source Let them know you are serious, but try and keep the conversation as honest and positive as possible. [12] X Research source For example, you can say “I’m really interested in pursuing my interest in science and the school in New York has much better opportunities for me to do this,” or “I’m being bullied at school and feel like an outcast. ”[13] X Research source Likewise, you can say “mom, I think it’s a good idea to move so that you have a built-in community and help whenever you might need it. ”[14] X Research source Suggest that your parents talk to your friends, colleagues, or teachers about your wishes. [15] X Research source This may help them better understand that your position is serious.
Put yourself in your parents’ shoes and be sensitive. [18] X Research source As they consider your wishes, keep in mind how it affects your parents. Although moving might be great for you, it can put financial and emotional stress on your parents. [19] X Research source Stay away from pushing the idea on your parents once you’ve discussed your wishes. This may annoy or stress them and could end up in them dismissing the idea altogether.
Offer to help your parents in any way you can if they decide to move. [20] X Research source Keep your parents in the loop about your feelings if the motivation for wanting to move is issues at school. Talking about problems with them may help. [21] X Research source Revisit the issue in the future if your parents said they weren’t sure or wanted some more time to think about it.
Speak with your family, friends, and/ or a trusted person. Be open and honest with them about your feelings and ask them for advice on how best to handle your situation. [24] X Trustworthy Source StopBullying. gov Website run by the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services providing information related to identifying and preventing bullying Go to source Seek the help of a professional such as your doctor, a psychiatrist, or a counselor. [25] X Trustworthy Source StopBullying. gov Website run by the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services providing information related to identifying and preventing bullying Go to source
Suggest going to live with family or friends in a different area. Although it might not be your first choice of places to live, it can give you a chance to move and experience something different. For example, you could say “would it be possible for me to stay with Uncle Chris for a couple of months and go to school there?” or “mom, would you like to come and stay with us for a few weeks? This will give you a chance to relax. ” Consider going on an exchange program if you are a student. Not only can going abroad let you “move,” but it may also provide you new perspectives and adventures. [26] X Research source Capitalize on vacations. For example, if your family is having a great time on vacation, mention to your parents how much more there is to do where you’re vacationing or even how much better your family gets along.
Research schools in your area that have qualities that you want. For example, if you want to focus on science, find local schools that offer excellent programs in science. Ask your parents about the possibility of switching schools. Remember that this may mean they need to drive you to a different town or area every day, which could make their lives more difficult. [28] X Research source Be aware that switching schools can also come with disadvantages: you will be the “new kid” and may find you have the same problems at the new school as you did at the old one. [29] X Research source
See what activities, clubs, or events are happening. In many cases, people will carpool to local happenings and this may give you a chance to meet new people and “move” without leaving your home. Ask friends and even people you meet while you’re out about activities or events in your area.
Research different communities online. For example, if you are interested in pursuing a degree in Roman history, you could join an online forum of archaeologists or other Roman history enthusiasts. Consider seeing what other communities exist in your local area. For example, churches may be a place to find people with similar interests or locating a horse club online may help you connect with someone else in your area with similar interests in horses. Let your parents know about the communities or activities in which you are interested. This can help them support you and may also make them revisit their decision about moving.
