March 26, 2015
Moving In Together: Tips For Sharing Your Space
Deciding to share living space with another person can work out well with a little planning and clear communication. Whether it’s a dorm roommate, your first apartment with friends, a significant other or future spouse, these tips will get you thinking about how best to make this transition a long term success. These are simple tips but don’t overlook their importance.
Who brings what. Take inventory of what you both have and decide what will be used and what will be stored. Small appliances, furniture, carpeting and even decor such as curtains and artwork should be part of your discussion. Do you mind if someone uses your coffee maker, vacuum cleaner or favorite dish? Decide and agree ahead of time.
Personal space. Make sure you agree on personal space that is yours alone and be honest about it. For example, let your new roommate know if you prefer they not offer your bed or bedroom to an overnight guest in your absence.
Blended Individuality. Don’t be afraid to blend your individual decorating styles together. Bringing two differing styles together can be fun and interesting as you each display collections, artwork and decor that defines your personalities. Makes for great conversation, too.
Compromise. Be ready to work through decisions and issues as they arise. Because they will come up. Your mutual ability to compromise will be one of the most important factors to long term cohabitating success. And remember it must be mutual. One-sided compromise will not work for long.
Don’t make assumptions. Be mindful not to make decisions on behalf of your roommate. Try to make significant decisions about your living space together whenever possible. And don’t assume that she ‘won’t mind’ if you use her things or make a decision for her. Nothing can destroy a good roomie relationship like the unwelcome surprise of being left out of the loop.
Chores. Watching a few episodes of The Odd Couple, either the new or classic version, will give you a good laugh and a good sense of how much trouble chores can cause. No one wants to be stuck with cleaning up after a messy roommate. Discuss your housekeeping preferences and talk about how the chores will be shared. Chores are another serious roommate relationship buster if left unchecked.
So what do you wish you knew before moving in with a roommate, friend or significant other? What else has worked well for you? Share your story in the comments.