Harriette Cole: My neighbor is leaving me unsettling notes

"They frequently leave passive-aggressive notes about noise, even when I'm careful to keep my music low and avoid loud activities. Sometimes the notes feel exaggerated or unfair, and it's starting to make me anxious every time I move around my apartment. I don't want to start a confrontation or create hostility, but I also don't want to constantly tiptoe around my own home or feel guilty for simply living my life."

"If you know where the notes are coming from, consider leaving a note for that person saying you are making an effort to be mindful of your environment, and you would appreciate it if they would stop with the notes. If you don't know who it is, leave a note on your door for them stating the same and suggesting that you hope you two can live harmoniously as you love your new home."

"I booked a vacation with a group of close friends months ago, and I've been looking forward to it. However, recently I've developed a fear of flying, and the thought of getting on the plane is making me anxious. I'm worried that my anxiety could ruin the trip for me, and I feel torn because I don't want to cancel and disappoint my friends or miss out on what should be a fun experience. I've tried to prepare myself by reading articles about flying"

A new resident is receiving frequent passive-aggressive notes about noise despite efforts to be quiet, causing anxiety and reluctance to confront the neighbor. The notes sometimes feel exaggerated or unfair and lead to tiptoeing at home and worry about management involvement. One recommended approach is to leave a polite note for the suspected neighbor or a general notice on the door if the sender is unknown, stating ongoing efforts to be mindful and requesting that the notes stop. Introducing oneself in person is an option but may risk escalating tensions. The goal is calm boundary-setting and preserving personal peace.

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