Living with roommates can be challenging at times. When living in a tight space with many people, conflict and tension are just unavoidable. If you don’t take steps to resolve these conflicts and tensions, things may just continue to get worse and you could find yourself in a sticky, uncomfortable living situation.
I spoke with one freshman who is experiencing this with his roommates. “It sucks going back to my room knowing that I’m not wanted and having people tell me my roommates are talking about me behind my back.” This seems like a very difficult and uncomfortable situation. So, you may be asking, What do I have to do to resolve all the tension?
Here’s what you need to do…
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Definitely easier said than done, but confront your roommates about the problem. Ask them what’s been going on. What is causing them to feel this animosity toward you? Is there something that you can do to better the situation?
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Give them space. Living with others, especially in dorms, can cause a stifling situation. It is possible for people to spend too much time with each other, and that makes it much easier to get on each other’s nerves.
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Lighten the mood. Try and make a plan to do something together that you would all enjoy. This could be a great bonding experience and really help revitalize your relationship.
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Propose a solution and/or compromise. Explain that this is a shared space for you all to be comfortable and at home. So, you will put in the effort to take the others into consideration, and they will do the same. At least it is possible to peacefully coexist without a hostile environment.
Having a house not feel like home is such a sad feeling and no one should have to experience this. Hopefully, these steps will ease conflicts and make for a more positive roommating experience!