How to Be the Perfect Roommate

With some careful planning and consideration, even you can be the perfect roommate.

Being perfect at anything in life is close to impossible, especially when it comes to roommates. Living with a roommate virtually guarantees there will be some conflict between both parties. Perhaps your roommate is a slob who leaves his food plates everywhere. Maybe you have a problem leaving toenail clippings on the kitchen floor. Even though issues are bound to arise between you and your roommate, you can take a few steps to becoming the perfect roommate.

Instructions

1. Create a schedule with your roommates designating specific chores for different roommates at specified times. Write the schedule down on a list and keep it in a place where all the roommates can see it. Shift around chores so all roommates share in them at one point.

2. Ask your roommates' permission to hold events that may disturb them. For instance, ask them if it is okay to hold a party on a certain day. Keep them in the know so that they feel valued and appreciated. Make sure the event interferes with your roommates' lives as little as possible.

3. Compromise with your roommates if you are having issues with them. Come together and write down your collective opinions on the issue. Share them with one another. Getting out your feelings on specific issues can lead to a more productive discussion to resolve the issues at hand.

4. Always pay your portion of the rent on time. Paying bills in a timely matter means your roommates will not have to track you down and averts bad feelings towards you.

References

• Divine Caroline: Eight Tips for Being a Perfect Roommate
• Apartment Ratings: Conflict Resolution Strategies to Use with your roommates