Visiting a close friend or family member can be a lot of fun, and you might stay longer than expected. Some people might tell you to stay as long as you like, but deep down, they may not mean it. When you make your plans, remember that people are being nice when they tell you that you can stay as long as you want to stay. If you are moving to a new town or you are in the middle of changing homes, you need to have a definite timeline so that you do not end up in that situation. Try to have a plan and make sure that you communicate with your host. This will help you avoid ending up in this situation.
Sometimes, in spite of your best efforts, someone may feel as though you have stayed with them long enough. This can be uncomfortable, and the person may engage in passive aggressive behaviors to try to make you want to leave. You probably want to try to be aware of the signs, so continue reading to learn how to tell if you have overstayed your welcome.
They Ask You to Buy Groceries
If you have been staying with someone for too long, you may suddenly find that you are asked to pick up groceries for the household. This is a definite sign that you have overstayed your welcome. Normally when people invite others to visit, they plan to provide food and drinks while they are there. This is a normal part of having a houseguest. However, if you have been there for a while and you are suddenly handed a grocery list, your host is likely hinting to you that you need to start contributing to the household.
The best way to avoid this situation, especially if you are on an extended visit, is to offer to chip in and pick up some groceries from the beginning. You can always bring something such as a coffee cake or another item that shows your host that you appreciate the opportunity to stay with them. If you are staying for longer than a few days, you can offer to pick up groceries or bring things back from the store. You are less likely to overstay your welcome if you show your appreciation in this way.
You Find That Everyone Is Busy All the Time
Another sure sign that you have overstayed your welcome is that the people in the house are always busy. Rather than coming to the kitchen or the family room, they might close themselves in an office or a bedroom to get extra work done. Maybe they stay away from the home altogether. If you feel as though your host is avoiding you, then it is probably the case.
The key is to remember that people avoid confrontation and don’t want to hurt your feelings. They may care about you, but your overstaying your welcome is uncomfortable. If you are staying with someone for a long period of time, you can make it more comfortable for everyone by communicating your plans and chipping in around the house. Offer to contribute to the utility bills, and surprise them by cleaning up the kitchen. These little signs of respect will go a long way toward your host being more comfortable with having you there.
They Ask About Your Family
If you have been staying with someone, and they start asking you about your family, it may be a sign that they want you to go visit your family instead. They might suggest that your mom misses you or that it’s been a while since you have seen your brother. Either way, this is a sign that it is time to go.
It can be uncomfortable to overstay your welcome, so make sure you communicate with your host and be helpful to show that you appreciate having a place to stay.