A sickness is going around, and no, it's not the flu. It’s Bieber Fever. With the release of his new album, we've all caught a case of this. We've also probably dealt with "roomie probs." It is an adjustment sharing a room with someone, especially if you never did before. The secret to getting along with your roommate is communicating. Justin Bieber's song, "What Do You Mean?" breaks down how your roommate or you may feel with lack of communication. Keep reading for tips on how to fix this.
“What do you mean?
When you nod your head yes
But you wanna say no.”
If your roommate asks, “Can I turn off the light? Can I borrow this? Or, can I open the window,” you do not need to sugar coat your answer. Be open and honest about what you want. If you want the light on to study, say it. If you don’t want them to borrow something, let them know. If it is already freezing in the room, tell them to keep the window closed. They will understand.
"What do you mean?
When you don't want me to move
But you tell me to go.”
There will be times that your roommate will ask for the room alone— it’s okay to let them have it. When they take advantage of that, though, is when it is a problem. Be respectful of giving each other private space and alone time, but do not take it too far. Keep in mind that you share the room.
“Oh, what do you mean?
Said you're running out of time, what do you mean?”
It is understandable if you sleep past your alarm when you have an early class, but it is not fair if you rush around the room, make lots of noise, and wake your roommate up at the crack of dawn. Just because you have an early class does not mean that they do. Be cautious of your morning routine.
"You're so indecisive, what I'm saying
Tryna catch the beat, make up your heart.”
Almost everyone wants to turn up on a Thursday night, but you don’t have to. If your roomie is begging you to go out, it is alright to say “no.” Don’t tell them you are going out, but then change your mind last minute. Be honest from the beginning if you have homework or if you just feel like staying in. Your roommate will appreciate this.
"You're overprotective when I'm leaving
Trying to compromise but I can’t win.”
Time management is one of the hardest skills to master in college. Acknowledge that you do not have to be with your roommate 24/7. Balance your time between your roomie, friends, schoolwork, and activities. Make sure you satisfy everyone, as well as yourself.
"You want to make a point, but you keep preaching
You had me from the start, won't let this end.”
Leaving sticky notes around the room to tell your roommate that they are a slob is called being passive aggressive. Don’t do this. Just tell them to clean up, and they gladly will.
"What do you mean?
(Be more straight-forward)”
Justin Bieber said it best: just be straightforward. Honesty is the best mode of communication. If you tell your roommate how you feel, they will understand. They love you no matter what and will have your back, regardless. My roomie and I have mastered communication. For those of you struggling with your roommate, keep these tips in mind and know that it will get better!!
