It's easier when it's a coworker or friend or something. When it's family... it's a little harder.
My husband's been doing that to me a lot lately when I'm on the computer. I usually take it as a cue to get off the computer because he wants my attention.
For me the irritation is twofold. First, someone staring over your shoulder. Second, someone taller than me (when seated), hovering above me. Gah!
But strategies I've used in the past are to look up and say "can I help you?" in my McDonald's voice. "Would you like the URL so you can look at this on *your* computer?" "Stop hovering, please." and my personal favorite for passive-agression: Without saying a word, stand up, turn, put hands on offending person's hips or shoulders, gently direct them to stand on the other side of the desk or to some more appropriate waiting area.
The other thing to do is to give a warning then when he's not hovering ("Dad, you know when I help you on the computer? You tend to hover behind me-- I've never mentioned it, but it really unnerves me. Please stop, because I'm gonna freak out one of these days if you don't."), then, if/when he doesn't stop, freak out. One good, solid freakout should stop the behavior pretty quick. Though it might land you on medication if you overdo it. |
