It might go something like this: you’d like some quiet time on the sofa with a book, but your partner would rather chit-chat over a cup of tea. Or, you’ve been looking forward to a practice session on your violin, but your napping flatmate might not thank you for it.
The question is:
If we live in close quarters with others, how do we make sure our need for private time is met?
The answer is:
Ask for it. Our Life at Home Report 2019 shows that one of the main barriers to privacy is the fear of insulting, hurting or alienating people we live with by saying ‘I need space’.
In fact, 12% of all those we surveyed said they didn’t feel they had the right to ask for privacy at home. But equally the research shows that when we don’t get enough breathing space, our wellbeing takes a hit.
Here are a few tips for asking for more private time without causing a rift:
