College has taught me a lot about sharing my space and learning to live with others in close corridors. Here are a few tips I have gathered in order to have a happy and healthy living environment.
1. You don't have to be best friends, but at least respect each other.
Not everyone is meant to be bff's for life and that is okay. You do not have to do absolutely everything with your roommate and you guys do not have to be all that close. But respect is so important, even if you aren't great friends you must understand and have some courtesy for one another.
2. Keep your side of the room/space clean and tidy.
Nobody wants to see your week old Chick-fil-A garbage on the floor, clean up after yourself. Whether that be making sure your clothes aren't scattered on the floor, taking out your trash, or just making your bed in the morning. With limited space keeping things clean is crucial.
3. Establish ground rules.
GiphyThis is so important and I cannot stress it enough. Establishing ground rules is critical in order to successfully live with another person. In the beginning make sure you establish certain things such as quiet hours, having people over, borrowing things, etc. Make sure everything is laid out before one person gets a little bit too comfortable.
4. Give each other space.
I am someone that enjoys my alone time. Whether it be after a long day of stressful classes or I just need some time to myself, space is important. Constantly living with someone and sharing everything can be a bit overwhelming after awhile. My tip is if your roommate is taking a nap, talking to someone on the phone or studying in the room, try to give them a bit of space before making yourself comfortable.
5. Communicate.
If you don't learn how to communicate with your roommate from the beginning the more likely things are to go awry. If an issue comes up, if your roommate is doing something you don't like it is better to speak up rather than letting things carry out with underlying issues. I cannot stress the importance of communication enough, it might be scary- but it must be done.
