Imagine this: you’ve just moved into a new apartment with a total stranger. You’re living together, but neither of you knows each other that well. How can you make sure that the next 12 months (or more) are as stress-free and enjoyable as possible?
If you’re in a living situation where you are sharing a space with other people, it’s important to learn how to get along and peacefully coexist. Here are some tips on getting along with roommates:
1. Show Respect
Respect your roommate’s personal space and belongings. Do not enter their room without permission, and if you borrow something, return it in the same condition.
Once you cross one of those lines, it is difficult to gain back the trust that a roommate needs in order for it to be a successful living arrangement.
2. Communicate Clearly
When living with roommates, it is important to communicate your expectations and desires clearly and honestly. Discuss the rules for visitors, noise levels, food sharing, etc., so that all are on the same page. Otherwise, if there are unspoken rules or expectations, resentment can easily build.
These expectations can include the following:
- Splitting of bills
- Cleaning duties
- Respecting each other’s personal space
3. Take Initiative
Take initiative in doing chores and cleaning up common areas. Maintaining a clean space will help everyone feel comfortable and relaxed in the home. If one person feels like they are taking on more than their fair share, it can create tension. As an alternative, you can hire professional cleaners from a domestic staffing agency and you and your roommates can contribute for their fee.
4. Be Considerate
Be considerate of your roommates’ sleep, study, and work habits. Don’t blast loud music, have parties, or disturb them while they are studying or sleeping.
Keeping in mind that it is a shared space and that your roommates need to get their own rest and work done will help make the living situation more harmonious.
5. Be Flexible
Try to remain flexible and work together to come up with compromises. Be willing to listen to your roommates’ suggestions and ideas. If someone is cooking a meal, offer to help. If someone needs quiet time, try heading to a nearby cafe or library.
This can also apply to storage space: try to be flexible and considerate with the amount of room that each person gets.
6. Acknowledge Differences
Acknowledge that you may have different lifestyles, habits, or preferences than your roommate(s). Respect their differences and try not to pass judgment on things that are different than yours.
Overall, getting along with your roommates is key to a positive living situation and can make it an enjoyable experience for everyone. Communicate openly and be willing to compromise in order to keep things running smoothly. Adopting these tips will go a long way towards making life in the same space more comfortable and pleasant for all. By following these tips, you can learn how to successfully live with roommates and cultivate a harmonious home environment. Remember that communication is key in any relationship, so don’t be afraid to talk it out!
Having open lines of communication and respecting each other’s boundaries will help ensure a successful living situation for everyone involved. Good luck!