A short guide to peace at home!
By: Fifi
Whether it’s your first time living in a shared space or not, it’s always a great idea to have a set of rules that everyone in the house agrees to and follows. This is my 4th and final year in residence and I’ve picked up some tricks along the way that I’d love to share!
To start, it’s a good idea to have a meeting with your roommate(s) within the first week of moving in. Get to know each other and talk honestly about how you usually like to keep your space. The shared spaces should make everyone who lives there feel at home. Here’s a loose ‘dos and don’ts’ guide on peacefully sharing a living space!
THINGS TO DO AS ROOMMATES:
Set rules and schedules
Having clear expectations of each other, helps you stay on track and avoid disagreements. Be fair and transparent when agreeing on chores and what you’re comfortable with. things to talk about could be:
A schedule for trash
Quiet hours
Shared expenses
Exchange contact information
Each other’s contacts isn’t just helpful if you can’t find your key😆 It’s a great way to quickly reach each other with issues or concerns. Make sure you have at least two modes of contact (for example, phone numbers and instagram handles)
Communicate about guests
It’s courteous to let your roommate(s) know when other people will be around, so, agree on a system to follow (i.e. sending a text) before having company over. Specify when and how long you’ll host the guest(s).
THINGS TO AVOID AS A ROOMMATE:
Avoid overstepping boundaries
Again, it’s important to get to know your roommate early on to understand them as a person. Remember, not everyone has the same views or even grew up the same way so certain boundaries need to be discussed to make everyone comfortable sharing a space.
Avoid leaving messes
There’s almost nothing worse than getting home to a dirty space, after a long day. Bathrooms and kitchens are hotbeds for bacteria, so you need to clean up after yourself. Having a clean space can also help reduce stress and anxiety!
Avoid bottling up issues
If you have an issue with something that your roommate(s) say or do, address it as soon as possible. Confrontation can be uncomfortable but it’s necessary. If you don’t speak up, you can start resenting the people around you, which makes for an awkward living situation.
All in all, sharing a living space is a rite of passage.
It can be difficult sometimes, but if you remember to be thoughtful and honest, you’re sure to grow, have fun and make some memories!
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