Living with roommates can be one of the most exciting aspects of apartment living. However, that doesn’t mean everything is smooth sailing.
Living with roommates can be one of the most exciting aspects of apartment living. However, that doesn’t mean everything is smooth sailing. Whether it’s someone you’ve recently met and befriended, or you’re living with your spouse and an in-law, rooming together comes with a ton of responsibility. It’s an exercise in patience, understanding, boundaries, and most importantly of all, wherewithal. Have you been wondering how to ask your “roomies” for help with housework? We’ve got some pointers for you!
Avoid Playing the Blame Game:
First of all, don’t go around blaming everyone else. That approach will only make things worse. Calling a household meeting is a much more diplomatic way to bring up who is supposed to do what and when it should happen so that the mess and clutter do not become overwhelming.
- Be As Specific as Possible: Second, strive to be as specific as you can. Vagueness can come across as passive-aggressive, and that will present a stumbling block that impedes your ability to communicate. Every ground rule should be easy to understand and easy to tell when such rules have been followed.
- Do Your Part to Be Helpful: Offering to hold up your end is a critical component of apartment living. Besides, it’s just common courtesy to do so. Some of your roommates/housemates/flatmates/what-have-you won’t be as meticulous about cleaning, decluttering, and organizing as you are. Perhaps they have different skills and talents. If someone doesn’t have the time or energy, try to meet them halfway or volunteer to pitch in. This helps foster a sense of teamwork rather than an inconsiderate chain of command.
- Emphasize the “I” Part of the Dynamic: Another way to politely ask your roommates for help is to lead by example. In this case, think about framing the conversation in terms of couples counseling. Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements that will sound hostile. “You” statements are ineffective and detrimental to your relationship with your roommate because it assigns blame and breeds defensiveness or resentment or withdrawal – or all three.
- Remember that Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: It sounds trite, but this principle is still a powerful motivator. Camaraderie and unity turn the housework into a fun experience instead of the dreaded tedium that everyone avoids because it’s so boring. Besides, they might have more pressing concerns, such as keeping bills paid or a huge pile of work-related projects that gobble up their attention.
Let Us Welcome You Home to Your Fabulous New Apartment!
Here at Beechtree Apartments, we pride ourselves on providing you with luxurious living and affordable pricing. So when you choose one of our fabulous new apartments in Calvert County or Southern Maryland, you can see how modern living meets modern-day conveniences.
It’s easy to find us! Visit us at 200 Jenden Way Suite 101, Prince Frederick, Maryland 20678. Are you social? Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Instagram! You can also reach us by phone at 443-432-3557!
