Strategies for Success
LIVING OFF-CAMPUS
Strategies for Success
Communicating with Your Roommate(s)
Living with someone can be difficult, especially if you’ve never had to share living space before. However, effective communication with your roommate(s) can help you avoid unnecessary conflicts or help you resolve those that do arise in a mature manner that suits everyone involved.
To make your messages more clear, use “I” language instead of “you” language. “I” language can help in the following ways:
|
WHEN YOU’D SAY: | TRY THIS INSTEAD: |
| I can’t | I can | |
| You are wrong | My understanding | |
| I don’t | I do | |
| You have to | …If would help if you | |
| I never | Today | |
| You don’t understand | Let me clarify | |
| You can’t | You can | |
| I don’t know | I’ll find out | |
| I have no idea | I know who can help |
Beware of Demands:
Have you ever felt like you would be blamed or punished if you did not do what was being asked of you? If so, then you know how it feels to have someone demand something from you. Demands also tend to come with criticisms and judgment.
| People shut down when they hear things like this: | Find out what they need by asking: |
| You should know better | Can you tell me about… |
| The house is supposed to be clean at all times | What do you think about… |
| I deserve to have my girl/boyfriend over any time I want | What is your opinion or… |
| I have the right to do whatever I want | What do you know about… |
You can steer clear of making this mistake yourself by empathizing when your request is turned down. When we use demanding language, people will either submit or rebel. Either way, the chance of working together to meet everyone’s needs is diminished.
