As just one example, people will ask where I live. It’s a normal question but when I answer the general area then it seems they pick out a landmark and try to hone in even closer ie: is that over by XYZ? My cousin lives on... Is that by... Oh over by the lake? On and on. If I am at a social event meeting new people that I may or may not become friends with, how do I answer the question about where I live without letting them hone in too close? If you’ve ever had a stalker you know you don’t want to give out too much information on yourself to people. I don’t want to seem Abby Normal for not answering, but I don’t want to be pin-pointed either. I’m reluctant to lie because then if I do become friendly with these people it will come up and it’s just too weird to have initially lied about where I live. I don’t want to keep track of lies and I don’t want to give out information and I don’t want to seem odd. That’s a lot of don’t wants. Can you help me? Oh yeah, I drive a distinctive vehicle that I can’t hide in a garage so if I answer the general vicinity it’s enough to “out” me.
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
I like to keep my privacy as well, though I don't think anyone would think of stalking me.
What I do, is generally be more aggressive than the other. If someone asks you for your address, answer as you do now, that is, informing of the general vicinity, but before they go on, ask yourself where they live. Usually while flirting, men like talking to talk about themselves, or of anything else for the matter. Take advantage of this. Keep the questions up. That way you not only keep questions at bay, but you also get to know enough of them before giving away more information.
If that doesn't work, refuse kindly. You can be mysterious without being odd. Laugh about it. If you smile, a "My mom told me not to" can still keep the conversation on.
At least I would understand your reluctance.
Just say that you live in whatever general area. And when they try to pinpoint a location that they're familiar with then concentrate on that landmark and try to turn the conversation back to how they know the landmark or whatever other tidbit of information you can gather to turn the conversation back to them. Everyone loves to talk about themselves, so just focus on that and let them.'
Smile politely and say "sort-of" or "in the general vicinity" and quickly have a question to ask them. People generally prefer to talk about themselves anyways, and it won't be hard to get them onto a different topic. Keep asking them questions to prevent the conversation from turning back to you.
Turn the conversation back to them. Start asking them questions. People are always glad to talk about themselves.
tell them you will only give out more info when you get to know them better.
first rule stay safe and let them know that if they still keep asking block them.
there are millions of great people out there but there also loads of scumbags.
give them the country if they are OK with that you decide how much to tell and when you tell them
Set the boundries and explain the reason for doing so.If not acceptable move on.
Try telling them that you would rather not answer that question, and tell them why. If they can't respect you for that, then they can't develop a friendship that is healthy with you.