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Sharing a living space is not easy. But learning how to get along with your roommates is an invaluable life skill that will help make your home a safe and comfortable space.
When I first started living with roommates, they would sometimes get on my nerves (and vice versa). After years of successfully sharing a living space, I've learned a few things that helped me make the most of the situation.
These 5 tips have helped me get along with my roommates and create a peaceful living space!
Tip 1: Maintain Clean Common Spaces
Many roommate arguments revolve around cleanliness. Doing your best to keep common spaces clean will go a long way in maintaining positive roommate relationships!
Be sure to:
Always wash your own dishes
Take out the trash
Sweep/vacuum the floor
Maintain a clean bathroom
How you maintain your room is your own business, but any space that is shared (i.e. the bathroom, living room, kitchen, dining area, e.t.c.) should always be kept clean.
Did you know?
It helps to make a checklist to ensure that all roommates are doing their due diligence to maintain tidy common spaces.
Tip 2: Pay the Bills on Time
Not paying bills on time is one surefire way to make your roommate(s) angry!
Always make sure to pay rent and utility bills on time. If it helps, set reminders on your phone for the bill due date or set-up automatic payments, if possible.
Tip 3: Communicate
Frequent communication with your roommates is very important in maintaining a positive relationship and solving any potential disagreements.
When an issue arises, address it immediately and in a respectful matter. If possible, communicate in person instead of through text messages.
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Your roommate keeps waking you up with excessive noises late at night. What should you do?
You should always communicate in person when your roommate does something that bothers you.
Tip 4: Be Respectful
Always remain respectful and considerate of your roommate(s):
Don't make excessive noise when they're sleeping
Keep common spaces neat and free of personal items
Tell your roommates if you plan on having guests stay overnight or for an extended period of time
The golden rule applies here: treat your roommate the way you'd like them to treat you.
Tip 5: Be Friendly
You don't have to be best friends with your roommates, but you should maintain a friendly relationship with them. Getting to know more about their background, family, and lifestyle can help you feel more comfortable with each other. Smile, ask about their day, and try to remain approachable.
Who knows, you might even make lifelong friends out of the living situation!
Take Action
Getting along with your roommates doesn't have to be a chore. Follow these simple tips and you'll be sure to have a great relationship with your roommate(s) just like I did.
This Byte has been authored by
Amanda Buddenhagen
Learning Designer