How hard is it to develop a thriving relationship with your parents?

That depends on you...and them. I had a distant relationship with my father...but he, at least, was capable of showing affection once in a blue moon. And I had a very bad relationship with my mother. She was physically abusive toward me, and not a bit affectionate. I was constantly manipulated by her, and I hated it.

But she didn't seem to care, as long as I made her look good. She was a narcissist.

So I guess that if your parents are NOT narcissists, and they like you, it shouldn't be too hard.