For example, say something like, “I don’t mind if you have people over, but can you try to keep the noise level down after 10 p. m. ? I work the early shift so I have to be out the door at the crack of dawn. ”
You could ask, “How do you feel about creating a chore schedule? For example, I could do dishes this week, and you could do them next week. Does that sound fair?”
Alternatively, your roommate may like to share their experiences and feelings with you, but you may not feel comfortable doing the same. Be upfront about your preferences.
For instance, if you’re dying to throw a party on Thursday night but your roommate has a final early the next morning, agree to postpone the bash till Friday evening, instead.
If you simply cannot communicate openly and there is tension all the time, you may be better off finding a new roommate.
Try to set a time in which you both can hang out at least once a week. Make dinner together, watch a movie, or go for a hike. Do something nice for your roommate every so often—do their dishes, bake them cookies, or offer to give them a ride somewhere if they don’t have a car.
