The past twelve months captured in photographs
Boundaries including how to organize shared spaces like the fridge and cabinets can help avoid mix-ups and future disagreements.
Effective communication is key; learn to adapt to your roommate's communication style, as they should to yours.
For one, clean might mean tidy, while for others it could be scrubbing the baseboards every day. Discuss the quality that’s needed and expected.
While cleaning should ideally be spread throughout the week and divided among all roommates, scheduling a specific cleaning day ensures it all gets done.
Whether it’s music, talking on the phone, or something else entirely, people’s preferences in terms of noise level can vary greatly.
When speaking with one another, use statements that reflect how you feel and what you experienced. “I” statements help diffuse potential conflict.
To help avoid escalating conflicts, learn to take responsibility for your actions. If it was a mistake, just say so, but own it.
It’s important to share if you’re going to have someone over and to respect the noise level. These courteous gestures often go a long way.
From resolving conflicts to managing household chores, tackling challenges together can strengthen the bond between two people.
Having a roommate teaches you about prioritization of tasks and needs. It also shows you that being flexible is important.
Sharing resources encourages you to find creative solutions when something runs out or a task is needed to be completed.
Key to understanding your roommate's needs and perspectives, active listening leads to smoother compromises and a more peaceful living space.
Everyone has their good times and their bad; have empathy for one another and say “I’m sorry,” if applicable.
Sources: (Newsweek) (ESN Rotterdam) (Everyday Health) (LawDepot) (Haven Wellness) (LinkedIn) (Common) (CollegeXpress) (University of Colorado Boulder)
See also: These stars used to live together
From on-time rent payments to electricity bills, sharing expenses and budgeting become essential skills when living with a roommate.
Having a roommate teaches you to proactively resolve conflict and how to appropriately respond when there is something that can’t be avoided.
Whether it's in a college or university dorm, a busy city apartment, or a cozy suburban house, having a roommate is definitely a crash course in the art of compromise and communication. While late nights may be filled with laughter and new memories, encountering the occasional passive-aggressive note left on the fridge highlights that living with a roommate is a journey of personal growth. From mastering the art of negotiation to discovering hidden talents, the lessons gleaned from cohabitation extend far beyond merely splitting rent.
So, grab your favorite mug and settle in, as we explore the invaluable information you'll acquire from the rollercoaster ride of being a roommate. Click through to learn more!
The roommate experience: What living together teaches you
Navigating shared spaces
LIFESTYLE Cohabitation
Whether it's in a college or university dorm, a busy city apartment, or a cozy suburban house, having a roommate is definitely a crash course in the art of compromise and communication. While late nights may be filled with laughter and new memories, encountering the occasional passive-aggressive note left on the fridge highlights that living with a roommate is a journey of personal growth. From mastering the art of negotiation to discovering hidden talents, the lessons gleaned from cohabitation extend far beyond merely splitting rent.
So, grab your favorite mug and settle in, as we explore the invaluable information you'll acquire from the rollercoaster ride of being a roommate. Click through to learn more!