Having neighbors is a great way to get to know people around you. You want to be as good of a neighbor as possible. However, sometimes neighbors can overstep themselves. While you should friendly, you should also be clear about your space and theirs. Here are four ways for your family to establish boundaries.
Build a Fence
Sometimes, if you want to send a message, you have to get physical. Building a fence might be the best way for you to establish clear boundaries. It doesn’t have to be anything rude either. This can be a great way to hone your building skills. Learn how to build a vinyl fence. This can make a lovely addition to your house. You should also make sure to discuss plans for a fence with your neighbors. They should know about what you’re doing and not have any specific objections. You should also get in touch with your local homeowner’s association to make sure you’re not violating anything. Having a fence doesn’t have to a matter of cutting your neighbors off from you. Instead, it could strengthen the relationship. It allows you to both realize and respect each other’s individual households.
Set Grounds for Conversation
A great conversational relationship between you and your neighbors is welcome. However, there are degrees to relationships and what you’re comfortable with sharing. Your neighbors might be your best friends. They might also be just casual acquaintances. You don’t want to give more information than you’re comfortable with sharing. It doesn’t have to be a specific message you give to them either. The tone of the conversations should be established. For instance, you might start with polite conversations but then transition to more serious matters. However, you might also stick with small talk. Whatever you choose, you should be confident in your decision. Don’t let yourself be influenced to discuss things that make you uncomfortable. A neighborly relationship should be respectful at every turn.
Speak up When Uncomfortable
Did your neighbor say or ask something that makes you uncomfortable? Then you need to speak up. It might be awkward or uncomfortable at first, but it’s necessary. You can also be as respectful as possible. They might not realize that they’re making you uncomfortable. Tell them in the best tone of voice. You should also ask them if there’s anything you could do differently. There might be things that you say to them that make them feel like their privacy has been breached. It’s important to show your respect towards them just as you want them to show theirs. If you feel weird about telling them directly, there are other methods. For instance, you might send a friendly note to them. Make sure that you’re polite but also as specific as possible.
Don’t Humor Them
Nosy neighbors will sometimes go to any lengths possible to gather juicy information. If they sense that they’re provoking you, they may or may not listen to reason. Some people just want to extract as much information as possible. They thrive off being nosy. If you’ve tried again and again to send a message and they won’t listen, take action. Make it clear to them that you won’t tolerate their nosiness any further. Cut off communication with them for as long as you deem necessary. It isn’t worth it to give the time of day to snoops. This might be difficult if you had a good relationship that turned sour due to them invading your privacy. If you believe the relationship is important enough, you should work towards mending it. Sometimes, it can become too strained. At this point, you might need to cut off communication with those neighbors for good.
As a homeowner, you deserve all the comfort and peace of mind possible. If your neighbors are being nosy, you need to take the appropriate measures. By following these tips, you can have the best relationship possible with your neighbors.