Tips for dealing with roommates

By Olivia Franklin orfrankl@iu.edu | @Livvvvv_5

Most people live with a roommate at some point in their lives. Some people have good experiences and others have roommate horror stories.

Maintaining friendships while living with someone you know

Make plans to hang out with your roommate. Just because you live together does not mean you are spending time together. Spending time together outside of the living space can strengthen the relationship.

If you see that your current living situation is not working out, do not make things worse by trying to live together next year. You do not need to live with the same people every year.

Additionally, do not stress over the little things. While it might be hard to admit at times, maintaining the friendship with your roommate is more import- ant than being right.

Handling difficult roommates

Next, remember to set boundaries with your roommate. For instance, if they use something of yours without asking, tell them whether you would prefer it if they asked first or if you would like them to not use it at all.

You may also consider making a chore chart. Some people do not do chores unless they can visually see they have things to do.

It is also important to have a place to escape to. Hiding away in your room is not always the best option, so having a place to go like a friend’s house or a favorite coffee shop can make all the difference.

Communication

Communication is always important when sharing a space and the house group chat might not always be the best way of doing so. Face-to-face communication is the best way to ensure things are not misinterpreted. Clear communication with your roommate makes sure you do not let things build up. The longer you wait to say something about the dirty dishes in the sink, the more it becomes a habit. Find a way to address the problem right away.

Finally, try to plan. Before signing a lease with someone, see how they are as a friend and peer. Just remember some people are meant to be friends but not roommates and that is okay.

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