Learn how to be a good roommate

Living with other people can be difficult. It becomes more difficult when each person comes from a different background and has their own ideas about how they want to live. Most people, at some point, must learn to cope with the challenges of having a roommate. The important thing is learning how to become a better roommate so you wont run into any issues. The following list features suggestions on ways to help the relationship between roommates.

• Select good roommates. Most people tend to choose roommates based on the relationships they hold with people. We have a habit to evaluate people based on if the person is friendly or not. While having a great personality is key you also must know their background of previous roommates. It is good to ask yourself these question: Is the person an early riser or night owl? What room temperature does he or she find to be comfortable? What kind of personality does this person have? Is he or she an extrovert or introvert? Does the person listen to loud music?
• Be upfront about your expectations. Set boundaries and stick with them. These boundaries can surround food, clothes, possessions, loud activities, use of common areas, quiet hours, cleaning responsibilities, and so on.
• Respect privacy and personal space. This is very important if you share a living area. Make a clear distinction between your stuff and your roommate’s stuff. Doing this will only make you responsible for your things. You must always ask before “borrowing” anything. Never take things without asking because it may cause issues. If your roommate allows you to borrow something, make sure you take care of it. The same way you received the borrowed item is the same way you should return it.
• Clean up after yourself. Make sure your area is alway clean. If you decide to use the kitchen and cook a large meal, make sure you clean up after yourself so you won’t potentially offend your roommate. Everyone should come to an agreement on the area of the room or apartment they will clean each week. Each person should make sure to clean their designated area well. If you have trash in your room, make sure you are timely in taking it out, so that a foul odor won’t be released. 

Keep in mind that, when you obtain a roommate, it is a business agreement first and a friendship second. Some people find it helpful to write up a roommate agreement in which you set down rules that everyone can agree to. This is a good way to make sure that everyone is clear on the rules for the room or apartment and their responsibilities. Have everyone sign a copy and keep it on hand. Finally,  remember to invite your roommates places when you go out to help build your relationships.