I seem to have a knack for resolving issues, which has helped me maintain great relationships with my roommates. For most collegiettes however, living with others can be an absolute nightmare because they have no idea how to compromise. As someone who is over-analytic and aspiring to work in psychology, I believe it is my duty to show you how to feel more comfortable with your roommates .
1. Think of everything!
Brainstorm every possible dilemma so that you can deal with them before they even begin.
2. Your absolute no’s
Make sure your roommates know what you absoultely can’t tolerate. For example, if you’re like me and you can’t sleep with the hall lights on, try leaving a note to remind your roommates to turn the lights off..
3. Never say “I don’t mind”
If you say to your roommates, “oh yeah, i don’t mind if we share food,” you’re basically giving them permission to eat your food as they please. Picutre this: you come home after a long day of lectures, and all you can think about is wolfing down that dessert you saved for yourself. When you go to open the fridge, you discover an empty plate with a few chocolate crumbs here and there. Now do you mind?
4. Labels are Ok
Writing your name on stuff doesn’t make you selfish and greedy. It simply lets your roommates know that you’d feel more comfortable if you had some things to yourself.
5. Be considerate!
As the saying goes, “treat others the way you want to be treated.”
6. Don’t try so hard.
You don’t have to be best friends with your roommates! You may live with them, but they have their own lives and you have yours. As long as you acknowledge them every now and again and always show respect, you’re doing everything right.