What do I do to connect more with my parents and as a family?

r/

Hello. I (29F) live with my parents (59F and 65M). I WFH. My dad is working even after retiring. My mom quit 2 years ago as a teacher.
My dad and I are big time introverts although we do talk alot with people we are close to. My mom is an extrovert.
I used to be a workaholic (working 12-13 hours) but recently, Ive stopped a bit unless very urgent.

I sometimes feel that us 3 have run out of things to talk about. We discuss our day when dad comes back from office and that’s about it. All of us are busy in phones after it. Even if we keep the phones aside, there’s nothing to discuss or talk about and everyone goes back to their phones.

There are no issues or awkwardness amongst us, we’re like any other normal family. Infact as I speak, were going for dinner.

But I wanted to ask is this natural? And is it normal for people to not have any things to talk about after staying with each other for long? Also could you give me some tips on how to address this?

Comments

  1. Opposite_Wishbone616 Avatar

    Honestly, mate, I reckon this is pretty normal. Fam gets used to each other, convos dry out, y’know? I’d suggest gamifying your down time. Maybe board games or trivia. Gets the chattin’ going without forcing it. U could even try learning something togeth, like a new language or hobby, might spice up the daily chats. Just my 2 cents tho, good luck!

  2. LeaJadis Avatar

    Play a game. I’m not kidding they are one of the best bonding experiences. board games, card games, video games. that kind of thing

  3. Medical_Loquat6230 Avatar

    IMO, it’s super normal to feel like you’ve hit a convo dry spell with fam. We’ve all grown up, living different lives, y’know? TBH, connecting ain’t about finding epic things to talk abt. It’s more abt sharing the lil stuff. Like a meme that cracked u up or the funniest YT vid u watched. Start a book club or binge a series together. Make a game out of the worst dad joke. Y’all got phones, use ’em to connect not distract. Remember, it’s the small things that count. Cherishing the ‘boring’ moments together might just be your ticket to depth, ya feel? Just my 2¢.

  4. Jae415120 Avatar

    I think for many people this is pretty normal, playing games, finding shows and movies you all enjoy, some kind of crafting or outdoor activity would help. Something to overall do together that can help spark new conversations amongst you all and maybe even discover a new family bonding activity. Another thing could be to imagine if you had kids and you were the parent in this situation how would you want your kids to spend time with you or converse with you? That could help potentially. Good luck!

  5. Sir-ALBA Avatar

    After talking work try asking what’s on their minds sometimes people have more on their minds that just work stuff.

    I connect with my dad through humour and his random quests to fix something I’m always eager to help him.

    My mum and I share a hobby (Scouting) I’m always talking about programs and advice. I love having someone close to share that with.

    My conversation hasn’t dried up because there’s always something new almost each day because I ask about things outside of work. Plan activities with them connect on a new subjects.

    And I am bias here but volunteer together it’s a lot of fun.

  6. Fabulous_Data1872 Avatar

    Dude, I totally get you. I’d say – heated debates. Pick a topic or trend, could be the latest GOT ep, or some controversial issue, or even aliens. And just vibe on it. You’ll be surprised how it gets everyone’s gears turning, sproutin’ opinions left and right. Plus, It’ll totally get you guys off your phones – I mean WTF, right? Everyday’s a chance to understand these folks that raised ya, don’t let that slip by. You might find some common ground, or argue it out, either way it’s connection, it’s real. And remember, family is fam. Might seem quiet, but there’s a whole universe to explore. Happy talking, mate!

  7. NicoleJay28 Avatar

    try to spend most of your time with them everyday

  8. Superb_Duck_9743 Avatar

    Make yourself available on their timeline.

    Maybe dad goes for a run? Accompany him.
    Mom wakes up at 6, be around her, help her.
    You don’t necessarily need to have a conversation just be present. You can help with the chores.