Is it time to give up apartment?
Dear Harriette: I just learned that my job is not going to go back to being in the office until at least mid2021. I have been living at home with my parents for months now. While I don’t want to keep living with them, I think I should give up my expensive apartment and find something much more affordable. One of my friends just moved back to her hometown and got a nice, affordable apartment. I’m thinking of doing that. I know that it might be hard getting a new place sometime next year, but I think I would be smart to save some money. Do you think this is a good idea? — Moving and Saving
Dear Moving and Saving: You are part of a growing trend right now of people reassessing their living circumstances and finances in the face of the coronavirus. You should assess a few things: 1. Do you think you will be able to keep your job? 2. Will you have to work in the same town as your job whenever the physical office reopens? 3. What is the going rate for apartments in the vicinity of your job? 4. Can you live in a more affordable community and manage the job commute when you have to go back? 5. How long can you and your parents feel comfortable with you staying at home and saving money?
After analyzing those points, strategize on your next steps. A move that isn’t too far from your place of work — meaning within 1 ½ hours — could be a great way to save money and still be viable to continue on the job for the long haul.
Dear Harriette: I am worried about whether to send my son back to school. The date has been pushed back for when school is supposed to start, and I think that’s a good thing. My son is disappointed because he can’t wait to interact with other teenagers his age. I know how much he wants to be with his peers, but I’m worried about his safety. In other cities when students have gone back to school, the COVID-19 numbers have spiked. What should I do? — Back to School
Dear Back to School: Pay close attention to the plans for your school, especially how they intend to enforce health and safety precautions, and whether they will have access to COVID-19 testing when needed. Be in touch with school leadership directly or through the PTA to find out everything you can about the modes of learning they intend to put in place.
Consider starting off remotely and watching to see how your school’s health weathers over the first semester. To ensure that your child gets to interact with other teens, consider allowing a small group of close friends to gather to do homework — while wearing masks and distancing.
If you do allow your son to go to school, be vigilant in your discussions with him about following all safety protocols. Remind him that this is for his health as well as the entire family.
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@ harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.