Moving in with new roommates is a tough transition. Getting to know each other and learning each other’s boundaries can be a complicated.
The best advice is, to be honest, and communicate.
Start by just asking how they feel about certain things. Do they smoke? How do they usually study? Do they work?
If you did roommate matching, there is a lot of information that isn’t including on the form. This is also a good time to see if they lied about any of their answers.
Uncomfortable about being so direct? Here are some tips for setting boundaries with your roommates without having to be too vocal:
- Put a calendar up in the shared living space and have everyone write their exam dates on it. This will let everyone else know when you’ve got a big test coming up without you having to constantly remind them.
- Use labeled magnets on the washer/dryer to show when it’s empty or full. Doing so can help the flow of laundry without having to constantly remind your roommates to clean theirs out.
- Hang up a mail bin by the front door. Not only will this eliminate a pile of mail on the counter but it makes sure no one loses each other’s mail. A mail bin is also great for storing coupons and other important reminders.
- Load your dishes right after you use them. If you don’t leave a mess, then it may encourage your roommates to do the same. No one likes to have dirty dishes in the sink so be conscientious and clean yours regularly.
- Invite them out for coffee or ice cream. Getting to know your roommate can make the whole process of setting boundaries easier. Plus, the more comfortable you are in your living situation the better.
Setting boundaries can be intimidating for anyone. It’s often hard to assert yourself with new roommates because you don’t want to come off as too controlling.
Before boundary issues lead to a roommate nightmare, try some of our helpful tips.
Have any of your own? Leave them in the comment section below.
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