If you know me in person, you know that I’m generally a pretty nice, tolerant person. Some may say a little “too nice”. What does “too nice” mean? Well, I think it means that I could be swayed (Yes, I did buy the lotion from the lotion guy in the mall once…I honestly hate admitting it). I don’t like to hurt peoples feelings and I’m also not one for a major conflict, so I don’t generally sweat the small stuff.
Today, however, I really felt a need to stand up for myself over a very small issue. This past week, someone has parked 3 times in my parking spot here at my apartment complex. It’s not that it’s a great or close spot to my apartment, but a lot of it is just principle and the fact that having to park elsewhere takes me more time to get around and is much less convenient.
So, you know what I did? I wrote the driver this little note…
I’m sure I could have got mad, complained, and have been rude or have been a bit more stern…but perhaps they didn’t realize they were taking my spot. When I first moved in, I didn’t realize it and accidentally parked in somebody’s spot. Also, I wrote the note cause I could have called security and dealt with it that way; however, I feel like, just like if you are blasting your music…wouldn’t you rather be approached nicely by a neighbor rather than have the security guard show up to scold you? Anyway, that is what I did.
Well, I had to run out to the drugstore 30 or so minutes afterward, and I totally noticed the dude walking to his card and picking up the note from under the windshield wiper. Not one for conflict, I ducked behind a car. How lame is that? I’m pretty sure he didn’t see me. I then ran back inside for a bit. I had no clue what I would say to him. Ha ha.
Well, I did go back out and go to the drugstore and you know what? When I got back, his car was moved to the visitor area! I guess my note worked. Well, for tonight atleast…who knows…he may be back in my spot tomorrow, but I think he got the point.
So, is there a better way you think you would have handled it?
Until next time Swellions!
Alexa
I think you handled it perfectly. Now if he starts parking in your spot again let me know. Hee hee.
I’m with you, I hate conflict. I always think it’s better to give someone the opportunity to resolve the situation before jumping down their throat. Then, if they park there just to spite you, you can ram their car or something! lol. Just kidding!
I am with you. I am too nice and I hate to hurt feelings. Typically when it gets on my last nerve, I explode. I have the same problem in my complex with parking in assigned cover spots. However, one day I got a note on my car stating it was going to be towed if I didn’t move in 15 minutes. The problem was I was parked in the free visitors parking right next to the assigned. HELLO!
You handled it just right. It’s a good reminder for us to give folks the benefit of the doubt. Love your blog! Thanks for sharing!