As young women, we often find ourselves caught in the middle. Whether it is between career choices or outfits, classy co-eds can get caught in sticky situations and relationships are no different. Friendships and romantic relationships play equally important roles in the life of a co-ed, but when her boyfriend and roommates don’t get along, what is she to do? Here are a few things to keep in mind as you navigate through this difficult love triangle.
Compromise is key: Make a conscious effort to spend a consistent and equal amount of time with both your roommates and your boyfriend. This might mean turning down plans with one to make time for the other. Keep yourself as neutral as possible in your roommates’ and boyfriend’s conflict to prevent it from getting out of your control.
Coming to terms: In a perfect world, your roommates and boyfriend would be the best of friends; however, it’s important to understand there’s a good chance that they will never get along. Don’t force the issue or play the middleman. Doing so could result in even more tension.
Stand your ground: Make it clear that you won’t tolerate bad-mouthing. If either your boyfriend or your roommates do not have a valid reason for disliking the other, calmly confront the issue. The last thing you need is unnecessary drama!
Keep it positive: Be aware of how you talk about your roommates and boyfriend when they aren’t around. Always play up the positive aspects of your roommate relationships to your boyfriend and vice versa. If you keep a positive attitude about the small things that annoy you about your boyfriend or roommates, it is possible for them to do the same.
Things take time: Although it may seem that your roommates and boyfriend are constantly clashing, there is a chance that all the conflict needs is a little time to naturally blow over. Your roommates or boyfriend may become acclimated to the things they dislike about the other and move on from there.
Still having problems? Maybe it’s time to re-evaluate. When it comes to friends and significant others, a classy co-ed should be able to have her cake and eat it too. But if either of these relationships continues to wear away at you, it may be time to choose between the two. As a classy co-ed, be aware that you should make a choice that makes you happy.
Got any other tips about how to keep the peace? Express yourself in the comments section!
