3 signs that you’re a nosy neighbor

Your so-called intrigue with the neighbors may be the reason that they avoid you.

We all know a nosy neighbor or two. Most of us politely avoid them. Recognizing a nosy neighbor becomes infinitely more difficult when you are that neighbor and you don’t know it. If you aren’t sure, see if you ever find yourself doing the following:

You see how they’re doing on Facebook. If you were on friendly neighbor terms, you could simply ask your neighbors how they are in person, maybe even invite them over for dinner like a normal person. Stalking someone on social media is not the way to show that you care.

You look out for them even when they’re home. It’s cool to keep an eye on your neighbors’ place when they’re away, being mindful of any strange events that may take place on the property. It’s another thing, though, to monitor your neighbors’ coming and going, the fashions of their house guests, the color of his boxers before bed… or anything else you’d need binocular for…

You’re the best, uninvited house guest ever. Even the friendliest, most welcoming neighbors have private events sometimes. It’s important to realize that without taking it personally when you aren’t invited. If you peek out of your window and see folks gathering at your neighbors’ house, this isn’t a sign that there is a block party. Your invitation was not lost in the mail. Your award-winning sangria is great but it may not be needed. Resist the urge to be a party crasher.

Are you a self-diagnosed nosy neighbor? That’s not a problem since the illness is easily reversible. When you find yourself peeking and prying into other’s lives, stop, think, and redirect your interest towards improving your own social life. For example, if you’re interested in the party that your neighbor is throwing, organize your own party. Become the person on the block worth stalking and you won’t have time to stalk anyone else.