If you're leaving the nest of your home for the first time for school or whatever the case may be, you probably won't have enough money to live alone especially when you're from an average home. In this case, bunking with a roommate or two can help reduce cost. That's where the problem comes as two individuals who decide to live together under one roof are of very different background and lifestyle.
Being able to effectively manage the relationship with a roommate is an essential skill to Being A Man. Being in the University taught me that much can't be achieved through conflict. I had a roommate in my 200 level, this guy shared everything even down to boxers - I wan cry at some point. There was no way to stop it as he never listened. Imagine dishes piling up or clothes loitered everywhere. It was all just disgusting.
Being a Man forces you to think up solutions to problems, even the most dire problems so I had to think and then I realized it was all happening because there were no ground rules governing our living together. Ground rules are necessary! These are rules that help tackle pending issues and prevent future mishaps. They have to be established for healthy living. The rules should cover everything from chores like who does dishes to paying of bills. Along with the ground rules should be repercussions if the rules aren't met. This should be done with mutual understanding and it will help tackle a lot of conflict.
Ground rules are usually very effective but even better is the Golden Rule which is Respect. Respect for yourselves, respect for properties, respect for each other's friends, respect for space - I could go on and on because there's no limit to respect. Respect they say is reciprocal so if you don't give me the respect I deserve, don't expect anything from me. Some individuals just feel as one becomes roommates, you're automatic buddies, if I hear. It doesn't work that way, we all have different lifestyles before moving in together. My space should be respected. Don't share clothes - this is where most guys go wrong. You wear my cloth and then when I wear it later, it would seem like I borrowed from you; say wetin happen. No abet. Respect will let you know how to correct errors. Respect for the other person can do more than you can imagine.
Now its up to you, what other tip can you say share on how on to live peacefully with a roommate. What are the Do's and don'ts? Share your experience with us.
Author: Michael Immanuel
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