Michele
One of the most nerve-wracking things about college is roommates. It seems that they can either be your best friend or your worst enemy. Living in such a small space will mean that getting on each other’s nerves is inevitable. That is why we compiled these 5 tips to help in these difficult situations.
1.) Set Rules
Within the first week of moving in, you and your roommate should set rules. How late can you be up talking on the phone? Are guests allowed? What are you comfortable sharing? Asking questions and establishing a set of rules can come in handy in the future. If there is ever conflict, you and your roommate can go back to this discussion.
2.) Buy Headphones
Headphones will be useful when someone is either studying or sleeping in the room. You may not have an exam tomorrow, but maybe your roommate does, and they need quiet time to study. You’ll also be going to sleep at different times and taking naps throughout the day. With headphones, you can listen to music or watch Netflix as loud as you like without bothering your roommate.
3.) Be Honest
If something is bothering you, tell them. Don’t bottle up your feelings or be passive aggressive. It will only make the situation worse. Your roommate might also be completely oblivious about their behavior, and the only way they can find out is if you confront them. Having an honest discussion is the key to solving the problem.
4.) Assume Good Will
Don’t assume that your roommate is purposely doing something to annoy you. For example, if it’s their turn to clean the bathroom and they haven’t done it yet, they could have just forgotten. Talk to them and give them a reminder.
5.) Communicate
If they have done something that made you uncomfortable, confront them nicely. Don’t yell or call them names. If you communicate in a healthy way, the outcome will be more effective. For example, if they used your TV without asking, tell them how you feel, and that next time they should ask before using your things. Honest communication will make them see the situation from your point of view.
Sharing a room is never easy, and that is why communicating in an honest and positive way is the key to a healthy relationship.
What other tips do you have? Make sure to tweet us at @Fuzzable.
