Are you hotheaded? Losing your temper too soon? Potentially intolerance can be really dangerous. Many crimes in the world today occur primarily because of a lack of patience. When they catch those people, they hire a criminal defense attorney or criminal defense attorney so they can prove to the court that it was an accident. Similarly, there is a resurgence of conflicts between neighbors. Economic recessions are attributed as the main cause in this case.
With falling property values and scarce financial resources, people tend to become more intolerant of their neighbors. In these difficult times, tact in your approach can better resolve your conflicts with neighbors.
• Before you continue discussing the problem with your neighbor, go to sleep worrying. It will help make things a bit easier. Or you may decide against approaching your neighbor. If you’re not consistently putting up with a problem from your neighbor, it’s just not worth moving forward.
• Meet face-to-face to work things out only when it’s safe. Avoid getting into unnecessary conflict.
• Pick a time to meet up with your neighbor when you feel like you’re in a good mood. Find out exactly what is bothering you. Think in advance what your suggestions are and how you are going to convince your neighbor of it. When you finally have a one-on-one dialogue, do it with an open mind. Be prepared to listen and accept what they have to say.
• It is natural for the neighbor to be defensive. This is the point where you can lose your temper. But if you anticipate this response of yours then you can act compassionately. Try to remain calm as this will clear your head and you will be able to get your point across.
• Don’t go yelling at your neighbor if the face-to-face meeting fails. Instead, try to put your request in writing. You can further support your argument by stating the local laws regarding the problem.
• You have a better chance of being clear if other neighbors are also facing the same problem. You can ask them to sign the letter. After seeing so many signatures, your neighbor may be willing to do business. This approach really works, so you can try it even before a dialog.
• In case you feel the need, you can also hire a mediator. It is the definitive solution if the conflict gets out of hand. Most mediators you meet are volunteers. You can hire them for a certain amount.
• You can even choose small claims court. However, you should be aware that this can be very expensive. Also, lower court judges cannot force your neighbor to give you money, but they can award you some money.
• The last resort is to present your case in a regular court. This can be very expensive and sometimes you may not even like the final decision.
All of these approaches can help you resolve your conflict with your neighbor. Try to avoid blame and focus on what you really want to achieve.
