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How to Avoid Killing Your Roommates  
HOW TO 

Tags: roommate, apartment, friendship, relationship, college, housemate

Is your living situation not everything you hoped it would be? Here are a few pointers on how to avoid roommate drama, whether you're still in school, or a young professional.

	Like every other relationship, communication is key. Lay some ground rules when you first move in, e.g. whether you share food or not, what bills are going to be in whose names, who is going to be responsible for pets, etc. There are bound to be some unforeseen difficulties, but tackling the most basic things (instead of assuming everyone is already in agreement over them) will make for a smoother ride.
	Cleanliness is most likely to be the dividing factor between happy and unhappy roommates. Regardless of which side of the fence you're on, remember that your roommate doesn't want to change for you any more than you would want to change for them. Compromise is key here: confront your roommate(s) but try not to belittle them. Air your cleanliness grievances, and make sure you listen to theirs as well. Be prepared to have pro-active ideas instead of just complaining. Explain that you just want to do the cleaning democratically, to a degree you can both be happy with.
	Don't get stuck paying for everything. The smallest things add up after a while, such as paper towels, trash bags, toilet paper, dish liquid, etc. If everyone uses them, everyone should pay for them at some point.
	Don't rely on your roommate(s) to be your best friends. Living with someone can sometimes change your opinion of them. It's awesome if you are close, but make sure you have healthy friendships outside of the home as well. Having roommates doesn't always ensure a 24/7 slumber party, but sometimes the best roommates aren't necessarily the closest friends.
	Avoid trash-talking. Sometimes it's good to let it all out, but keep the kitty claws to yourself. Gossip never solves anything.
	If you and roomie have different friends, don't be afraid to overlap your circles, whether it's at a party or just hanging out. The most rewarding thing about living with other people is growing, and meeting different types of people is always a good thing.
	Don't let every little thing bother you. Get to know your roommate(s) idiosyncrasies, and if they're not hurtful or unfair, simply accept them and move on.
	Be considerate of their schedule, whether that means keeping down the noise at night, or in the morning.
	Always rely on yourself to be the bigger person. Not everyone is mature about the same things. Even if you are rational, some people are just hell to live with! Once your lease is up, look elsewhere for living mates; don't stay with someone you can't stand just because it's convenient.
	Have fun! There's bound to be some kinks along the way, but having roommates can be a fresh new experience, as long as you're willing to try something new.

Lister: diperniac

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Comments: This definetly applies to me since I just started college. I'm starting to get weary of my roommates but I never thought to look outside my suite for friends. Comment by: jmdryer