There are two lifestyle mindsets that can make co-habitation a conundrum: the Keeper versus the Discarder.

Pack rats fall into the Keeper category as they take great comfort in having things. They hold onto everything from sentimental clutter to bargain finds and memorabilia piles. On the other hand, the Discarder takes great pride in letting things go, and only keeps what is necessary. The Discarder doesn’t acquire things with the same fervor as the Keeper, and doesn’t hold possessions with the same emotional attachment.

If you are relating to the plight of the Discarder or the Keeper, it’s likely because your style is opposite in the same proportion to someone you live with.

We are drawn to our complementary opposites because we have something to learn and appreciate from them.

Both styles are comforted by the way they like to live, and finding compromise can be challenging. As with many relationships, one person’s preference can dominate the other’s, but if you’re going to continue living together, find ways to make it easier for yourself. Reduce resentment with understanding, and stop nagging, judging or complaining.

To leave room for each other yet still coexist, start with an open heart and mind and begin a conversation that includes the following points:

>> Focus on the positive gains and growth. If you live with someone who is your complementary opposite in living style, what has been the advantage? Our ego wants to put the other down for being either “too uptight” or “too messy,” but find where you have overcome friction in spite of your opposite habits and you’ll begin to neutralize some of the resentment. It would be easier if the other person changed, but you already know you can’t force them. If you at least attempt to look at your situation from a positive instead of negative perspective, you will be in control — which always feels best.

>> Accept and respect each other. The more you tell someone to change, the more they dig in their heels, leaving you feeling worse than when you started. If you’re the minimalist, can you relax your standards for the sake of peace? If you’re the pack rat, can you accept that others find peace in order and systems? You are together for reasons beyond your living styles. Reflect often on why you came together. It’s not about the things you have or don’t have, it’s about the experiences you create.

>> Create sacred zones. Together, decide what areas are common space and negotiate their contents. The Discarder can designate a space or a room where nothing enters without permission. The Keeper can designate an area where anything can be kept without question. The key is to establish safe zones and shared zones. If there are others in your home, bring them up to speed on the shift so they can be a part of the system.

Remember Felix and Oscar of the comedy series “The Odd Couple”? They found a way to live together and love one another.