Having clingy neighbors is one of the most annoying things in life. If you are looking for how to keep neighbors at a distance then simply checkout the article below.
Table of Contents
How to keep neighbors at a distance
Demarcate your backyard from your neighbors
If you want to keep your neighbors at a distance then the best thing is to demarcate your backyard from theirs. However, you should know that this option only works if you are on a private property. You can separate your backyard from that of your neighbors by putting up a fence or putting flowers. This will help to ensure that your neighbors do not encroach into your yard since they will be trespassing. Furthermore, neighbors will feel embarrassed to start a conversation with you since they will be overstepping their boundaries. So if you have a private property and are trying to keep your neighbors at a distance then you should definitely try using this method.
Avoid going out of the house regularly
If you are leaving in an apartment building then it is best to avoid going out regularly if you plan on keeping your neighbors at a distance. This is because, the more you go out, the higher the chances of bumping into your neighbor. Therefore, you need to limit your movements, with time your neighbor will understand that you are not the chitty chat type of person and ultimately leave you alone.
Deflect attention
This is actually one of the best ways to keep neighbors at a distance especially when you are outside. Instead of just sitting there without anything to do, try to deflect attention by reading a book or typing something on your phone or laptop. This will give your neighbor an illusion that you are busy and ultimately they will leave you are alone. If you sit outside without anything to do, your neighbor will definitely approach you since they will assume you have nothing better to do. If your neighbor does not catch the hint and continues asking you questions try to give them one word answers like “really”, “oh” and “nice”. Such responses will give your neighbor a hint that you are busy.
Silent treatment
Although this is a harsh method to use it will help to get the job done. If your neighbor is annoying and you just cannot take it anymore, you should consider giving them the silent treatment each time they want to initiate conversations with you. You should note that once you give your neighbor the silent treatment, they will perceive you as a rude person and they will never want to talk to you again.
How to politely keep a neighbor at a distance
If you want to politely keep a neighbor at a distance then the best thing is to talk to them. This will help to ensure that they understand the reasons why you do not like socializing with them. Furthermore, you should indicate that there is no bad blood between the two of you, so that you clear up the whole situation. Being honest with your neighbor is a good way of ensuring that you maintain good relations. If your neighbor refuses to accept your decision then you can seek advice from the Homeowners Association or the property managers.
Reasons why you might want to keep neighbors at a distance
People have different reasons for trying to keep their neighbors at a distance. Some of the reasons are influenced by an individual’s personality whilst others are influenced by the state of the surrounding area. If you are wondering why you are trying to keep your neighbors at a distance then here are a few possible reasons.
Social anxiety
The reason why you might be trying to keep your neighbors at a distance is because you have social anxiety. People with social anxiety find it very hard to socialize or communicate with other people. Furthermore, they are scared of being scrutinized and judged by other people which is why they like to keep to themselves. If you often feel this way then there is a chance that you have social anxiety and you can actually get professional help to counter this.
Busy schedule
The other reason why you might be trying to keep your neighbor at a distance is because you have a busy schedule. It either you have a lot of work to do or you are occupied by school or other duties. If you are this kind of person then you definitely need to utilize every minute that you have and because of that you simply cannot tolerate clingy neighbors. If you have a busy schedule then its best to be open about it with your neighbor so that they do not try to initiate long conversations with you.
Neighbors are troublesome
If you have a feeling that your neighbors are troublesome then that might be one of the reasons why you would like to keep them at a distance. However, if you feel that your life is at risk because of your neighbor’s actions then its best you report to the police, avoiding your neighbor might not be of any help in the long run.
Different personalities
The other reasons why you might be avoiding your neighbors is because you believe you have different personalities. Maybe your neighbor is an extrovert and you are an introvert, this could ultimately make or break your relationship. Furthermore, you might have different interests and you are just not keen to building a relationship with them.
Privacy
The other valid reason why you could be trying to keep your neighbor at a distance is because you value your privacy. If your neighbor is always invading your privacy then you are justified for trying to keep them at a distance.
Conclusion
Keeping neighbors at a distance is an easy task however, when done wrongly it can give your neighbor a bad impression about you. This is one of the reasons why you should always communicate with your neighbor before giving them the silent treatment or deflecting attention.