How can I politely ask my mom to tidy up?
I’d really appreciate some advice! I’m a 21-year-old female who has just transitioned from community college to university. I’m currently living in an on-campus apartment-style dorm with a roommate, and we generally maintain a clean space.
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It sounds like you’re in a transition phase, and communicating openly about expectations can help! Here are some suggestions on how to approach this conversation with your mom:
Choose the Right Time: Find a moment when she’s not busy or stressed. A relaxed atmosphere can lead to a more constructive conversation.
Be Honest and Respectful: Start by expressing your appreciation for her and what she does for you. You might say something like, “Mom, I really appreciate everything you do for me. I’ve noticed that I have a different routine now that I’m at university.”
Share Your Experience: Explain how your new living situation has influenced your perspective on cleanliness. Mention how you and your roommate maintain your space and how important it is for a conducive living environment.
Make It Collaborative: Instead of directly telling her to clean, you could suggest making cleaning a joint effort. You might say, “I’d love to help out around the house more and maybe we can set aside some time to tackle it together.”
Offer Solutions: If she seems overwhelmed, you could suggest specific solutions, like setting up a cleaning schedule or decluttering together. This makes it less about telling her what to do and more about working together.
Be Patient: Change can take time, so be patient and understanding as you both adjust to the new expectations.
Remember, the goal is to communicate your needs without sounding critical. Good luck!