How to Handle An Annoying Roommate and Live In Peace

When a roommate annoys you, it can be hard to live in peace and quiet in your own home. The fact is, you have to try and get along with your roommate so that living together can be harmonious, but it's tough to make a situation work when your roommate is constantly driving you crazy. Here are some tips for dealing with an annoying roommate and creating some peace in your home environment.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pinpoint the reasons your roommate annoys you. Is she messy, partying too much, makes a lot of noise when you're trying to sleep? Figure what it is about your roommate that drives you crazy so that you can deal with the situation in the best manner. Make a list of things that annoy you about your roommate and how you could remedy the issue. Knowing exactly what it is that makes you crazy about living with your roommate can help to resolve problems before they fester and become worse.

2. Talk to your roommate about the things that annoy you. Be kind in doing so. Try to speak in a respectful, yet concerned manner by telling her exactly what has been bothering you. If your roommate is messy, tell her that it annoys you that you are always having to clean up after her. If your roommate is too noisy, tell her that it's bothersome that she keeps you up at night. Be honest, but gentle when choosing your words so that you do not hurt your roommates feelings. It may help to take your list with you so that you can talk about all the issues you have in living with your roommate.

3. Tell your roommate what things she could do differently to help you feel less annoyed. Ask her to pick up the slack when it comes to cleaning the house or to try and be a little quieter at night when you're sleeping. If she is constantly having company over and this annoys you, ask her to pick only certain nights to have friends over that you can agree on. It's important to compromise when dealing with a roommate. After all, it is her house too and she should be able to have a little freedom in doing things she likes as well.

4. Ask your roommate if there is anything that annoys her about you. Tell her that you'd like to resolve this issue so that the two of you can live harmoniously under the same roof. Listen to your roommate's concerns and try not to get angry with her. She may have things that bother her as well and talking these issues out can help the two of you live better together. If your roommate tells you things that do annoy her, try to compromise on these issues. Tell her that you'd like to fix things and are willing to change things if she is.

5. When you need time to yourself, tell your roommate that. If she annoys you by always having to be with you, explain that while you enjoy her company, you need time alone to do your own thing. Designate days and times to spend together so that you can have fun as roommates, but still have your own time to yourself. Let your roommate know that you may have days when you just need to be by yourself and ask that she understand this. Most people do understand needing time alone and you may be surprised by your roommate's response to this.

6. If your roommate gets mad when you try to talk to her or is unwilling to change, you may want to consider moving out. Sometimes people just cannot live together and forcing this living situation can be a disaster in the long run. Rather than lose a friend, move on. Tell your roommate that while you love being around her, you realize that the two of you just cannot live in the same house. Be honest, but kind in talking to your roommate about this. You may just find that she feels the same way and is less upset about you moving than trying to change her ways.

[godfather25]

on 10/25/2009 Good article on handling an annoying roommate and living in peace.

[goodselfme]

on 10/24/2009 Good ways to handle an annoying roommate and live in peace.