Choosing a roommate may be the first step, but the next step is even more important. That is, learning to live with your roommates. It doesn't have to be hard getting along with your roommates or creating a pleasant living environment. All it takes is a lot communication and a little understanding. Here are some tips for for creating and maintaining a good roommate relationship:
Establish Some Ground Rules
Right at the beginning of the relationship is the perfect time to create some roommate rules together. This can cover everything from what time at night it needs to be quiet to when its acceptable for friends to visit or when girlfriends/boyfriends are allowed to be over. Setting clear rules at the beginning that all roommates agree on will cut down any problems that would likely arise in the future. Remember to discuss the behaviors that are to be expected during exam periods, too.
Plan Ahead
Establish some plans regarding important matters such as cleaning schedules and financial obligations. Neglecting to clean up the dorm room and living with a messy roommate are common problems, which is why its best to discuss these matters ahead of time. The same goes for the payment of utilities if this should be an issue. Money problems shouldn't come between roommates. Furthermore, be sure to tell your roommates when you have a big exam or essay coming up so they can be prepared to give you your study time.
Communicate
This is perhaps the most important tip. You must communicate with your roommates. They can't read your mind and neither can you read theirs. That's why you must discuss with one another the things that bother you and what you expect from each other. Don't be afraid to speak up should a problem arise. Its much easier to deal with it right away before it spirals out of control.
Compromise
You must learn to compromise. Give and take is crucial to any relationship no matter who it's between. If you are willing to compromise on one issue for your roommate, he or she will be more willing to compromise on another issue for you. Learn to work together. If you're not comfortable seeking the aid of others, you can also find helpful information on the internet, such as roommate survival guides.
If a major problem arises that just can't seem to be solve then you may need to bring in a non-biased third party, such as a dorm adviser. They can help you work through your problems so you can have a healthy living environment.
Remember, the worst thing you can do when roommate problems do arise is to sit back and do nothing. You need to speak up and address an issues right away. If you live by this philosophy then you will more than likely have a good living experience with your roommates.
Amie Cunningham - Hello everyone! I am currently a web designer for a major web publishing company in Guelph, Ontario Canada. I love being a designer as I ...
Join the Conversation