He is home all day. I work all day. When I get home and I have things to do, especially yard work, I want to be left alone. I can't stand outside an talk for an hour. How do I gently tell him I need to use my time wisely, and please to not run over every time he sees me outside? It's so annoying.
Jack
The answer is elegantly simple. Be both respectful AND honest. It works. Try scheduling some time to interact with him instead of him just chatting whenever he gets the chance. Or not. Your choice.
"It's been nice talking with you. I really need to get back to work." "I'm sorry. I don't have time to chat right now. We'll talk later."
Anonymous
Just say you have to get back to your yard work as you have a lot to do inside too.
Anonymous
What is the problem no mean it what is your problem? If you are stopping your work that is on YOU not him you simply keep working, what is so hard about that? One day you will be older and hopefully not as lonely as this person who simply wants to talk, YOU and only YOU make it a detriment to your work.
me
I wouldn't cut him off completely but a trick you can use is have something to carry from your car to the house that's heavy. Sounds stupid but then once your inside you're home free. Like have a fake bag full of heavy stuff and make a story as to why you have it like gum stuff or some hobby you bring to work for your breaks.
Jeff
He's trying to be nice considering he probably doesn't get many chats, just tell him nicely besides you're not being forced to chat with him for an hour just walk away.