Living With Roommates What Introverts Should Know - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / Living With Roommates What Introverts Should Know - Introvert Whisperer Living With Roommates: What Introverts Should Know Kayla Matthews April 16, 2019 Communication No responses Go to top Like most introverts, I was intimated by the thought of going off to college and living with roommates for the first time. It was a gamble to see who I’d end up with and if we would get along. There were good days and bad days, but nonetheless, I discovered a lot along the way. Avoid some of my mishaps by learning how you can find the perfect roommate and what to do if you end up with a bad one. How to Find the Perfect Roommate Some colleges and apartment complexes allow you to choose your own roommate. If you have the option, take it. There’s plenty you can do to find someone compatible. 1. Look for an Introvert About 80 percent of people believe opposites attract, but science has proven it’s a myth. If you’re an introvert, look for someone that shares similar routines, such as craving alone time or preferring to listen over talking. 2. Share Common Ground Having common ground, no matter what it is â€" your college major, a hobby, a favorite movie â€" is an excellent foundation for a relationship. Finding a roommate who shares your goals, such as maintaining a 4.0 GPA, can even provide a support network for achieving them â€" something proven to benefit both your physical and mental health. 3. Ask About Tidiness One common point of contention between roommates is tidiness. Some may not mind a little mess around the apartment or dorm while others require spotlessness. Personally, I don’t mind letting a dirty dish or two sit for a day. No matter your preferences, look for a roommate who shares a similar mindset. How to Deal With a Bad Roommate Unfortunately, you don’t always have the option to choose your roommate. While you can avoid the dorms and rent your own apartment, sometimes you have to deal with a bad roomie. Luckily, there are steps you can take to make your experience a little easier: 1. Implement House Rules You and your roommate don’t have to be friends â€" you don’t even have to get along. Instead of getting mad when you and your roommate clash, be proactive and talk about rules you want to establish when you move in. From turning the music down after a particular time to cleaning up after meals, house rules can keep a bad roommate accountable and make your life less stressful. 2. Find an Outside Spot Sometimes there’s no way to fix a bad relationship. If you can’t get along with your roommate and can’t find a path to compromise, find an outside spot where you can regain your sanity. Some people enjoying spending time at their favorite cafe or coffee shop, taking a book or computer along. When the weather is warm, I like to escape roommates by walking to the park or going on a bike ride. 3. Ask For Help Bad roommates come on a spectrum, meaning some are worse than others. If you find yourself living with a roommate you cannot tolerate â€" maybe they refuse to stop throwing parties or you’ve discovered they’re selling drugs â€" ask for help. When the situation becomes too much to handle, there are people you can reach out to for guidance. In college, that might mean discussing things with your RA. If you’re renting an apartment, you could talk to the landlord or property manager. Living With a Roommate If you’re lucky, you’ll find the ideal roommate that can blossom into a friend. Just keep in mind that living with any roommate can have its challenges. While you cant always pick who you live with, there’s still plenty you can do to save your sanity and make life easier. Go to top Bottom-line â€" I want to help you accelerate your career â€" to achieve what you want by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my 4 Building Blocks to Relationships eBookâ€" the backbone to your Networking success and fantastic work relationships.  Grab yours by visiting here right now! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer