I grew up in a multigenerational home, and honestly, it was beautiful. The house was always alive and full of loud laughter, the clatter of cooking, the hum of people moving around. Everyone had their part to play, whether it was helping with chores, sharing stories, or just being together. There’s something special about that constant presence of family.

But living with multiple generations isn’t always easy. It can get overwhelming trying to carve out personal space or meet your own emotional needs while family obligations take priority.

Do you live in a home like this? With parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles? You’re not alone. Multigenerational living is common in collectivist cultures and immigrant families it eases financial burdens, strengthens support systems, and keeps traditions alive. But it can also be stressful at times.

I remember the little moments that made it magical. Waking up to the smell of garlic and onions, knowing my Lola (grandma) had been up since 6 a.m., cooking and preparing meals for everyone. I miss her so much. And yes, as a kid, I sometimes felt embarrassed bringing different lunches to school but looking back, I would give anything for those home-cooked meals again.

Living in a multigenerational home teaches resilience, patience, and love but it also reminds us why self-care is essential. Taking even a few minutes for yourself, creating small pockets of space, and honoring your own needs doesn’t take away from family; it helps you show up for them with more patience and love.

Here are a few ways to care for yourself while living in a busy household:

Carve out your own space: I remember there was a small den in the house that I made my own little hideaway. It became a place to decompress and a quiet corner during the busiest times of the day. Finding a small area or coordinating times to be in different spaces in your home can give you a much-needed mental reset. Create little moments that bring happiness I think back to watching Home Alone during special celebrations and hearing karaoke echoing through the house. Focusing on those simple joys and shared meals, laughter, traditions helps you notice the beauty of living together, even when things get hectic.

Communicate openly: It’s important to share how you’re feeling with your family in a kind and respectful way. Try using “I” statements, like “I feel overwhelmed when the house gets loud,” instead of “You make me feel overwhelmed.” This helps express your needs without blame. You can be direct and gentle at the same time - it’s all about your tone, body language, and the intention behind your words. When you speak from care instead of frustration, your message lands in a softer, more understanding way.
Set gentle boundaries: It’s perfectly okay to take a few minutes just for yourself. There were times I’d put on my earpods and listen to my favorite song on repeat it was my little reset button. Saying things like, “I just need a few minutes,” or “I need some quiet time,” helps protect your energy and gives your mind space to recharge.
Practice small self-care rituals: Find tiny moments throughout the day that help you pause and breathe. A short walk, a few stretches, a warm cup of tea, or simply sitting and watching your mind body connection can do wonders when the house feels chaotic. Even a few minutes of stillness can help you come back to yourself.
Just know that - Living in a multigenerational home is both a gift and a challenge. The full of noise, love, and lessons. It’s where culture, connection, and care all live under one roof. As you care for others, don’t forget to care for yourself, too. Your peace matters just as much as the love you give.

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