How To: Deal with a needy neighbor

You're a nice person, and you want to be friendly with your neighbors. But some people will use that niceness to take advantage of you. Find that fine line between being firm and being rude to deal with your neighborly nuisance.

You Will Need

* Boundaries
* Energy
* The ability to say no

Step 1: Pay attention to your gut feelings

Take your gut feelings seriously, and pay attention to them. If your gut tells you to stay away from a needy neighbor, heed the advice.

Step 2: Establish boundaries

Be clear about boundaries and what you will and will not tolerate. If a needy neighbor violates your boundaries, let them know as soon as possible.

Step 3: Stay energized and busy

Stay energized. Negative people don't like being around people who maintain a positive outlook, and being too busy to talk will get them looking elsewhere to fulfill their needs.

Tip: Limit conversations.

Step 4: Say no

Explain to your needy neighbor when they call or drop by that you are busy and can't visit with them. Be polite but firm before they suck you in.

Fact: Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood produced more than 870 episodes.