The Secret to Building Positive Relationships

The second term is almost halfway through, and you have probably settled into your hall. You have cooked meals with your flatmates, had heart-to-hearts, and built some memories that you will carry with you for a lifetime. However, there may also have been a few instances of disagreements. This is normal but can become a bigger problem when tensions remain unresolved. Hence, this time can be ideal for a reset and communicating your expectations for the rest of your time in the hall. ✨

Have a Check-in with your Flatmates 🗣️

Since it has been more than a few months of you living together, certain mild issues may have crept up or become recurring but haven't been voiced yet. Organise an informal chat in the kitchen, for example, where everyone gets the opportunity to share their concerns so it doesn't feel confrontational. 🍽️

Talk About Things that are Going Well 🌟

Before jumping into what’s not going well, start with the positive aspects of your flat dynamics. Just a small comment, for example, “I appreciate how we all take the bins out in turns, it makes things so much stress-free,” goes a long way. This not only makes people feel valued but also reinforces good habits. 😊

Address and Discuss Bothersome Issues 🤝

It might be possible that the person responsible for certain issues doesn’t even realise they are causing trouble. Whether it’s someone who shuts doors too loudly or leaves dishes in the sink too long, a neutral conversation can help: “I think the dishes are being left in the sink for a little long. Can we be more mindful of this?” 🚪

Set Boundaries 🚧

If you haven’t done this yet—or even if you have—it might be a good idea to reinforce what you're okay with and what you're not. Talking about minimal things, like using each other’s groceries, can be helpful so that everyone is aware of expectations in shared spaces. Stay calm and brainstorm solutions after hearing everyone’s opinions. 🛒

Be Flexible and Open to Change 🔄

As coursework gets more intense, and some people gear up for dissertations, projects, or even graduation, flat dynamics might shift. Talk about any changes you expect in your routine and be welcoming to your flatmates’ changes too. Even a simple text like, “Hey, haven’t seen you around lately, everything okay?” can make someone feel supported. 📚

Employ Small Gestures to Foster a Positive Atmosphere 💕

Avoiding conflict starts with creating a good atmosphere in the first place. Spending time together—while cooking, eating, or even walking to LSE—can help maintain a friendly dynamic. A small gesture like offering a snack to someone who’s had a long day can make a huge difference! 🍫

While you may have adapted to living together and gotten used to each other’s habits, there are always small things you can tweak to make shared living even better. An open conversation goes a long way, so don’t shy away from it! 💬

If disagreements ever get out of hand and start affecting your well-being or studies, don’t hesitate to contact the subwardens in your hall. They are there to support you and ensure you feel safe and comfortable. 🏡

Having good relationships with your flatmates can make your life so much easier, and who knows—you might make a friend for life! 🎉