DEAR ANNIE: My girlfriend’s father has a knack for calling or texting me at the most inconvenient times during the day or night. I get random texts from him while I’m in meetings or have my boss in my office. Over the last few weeks, he’s started calling and texting me until I answer or reply to his text during the middle of the night.
The last three times, I’ve been out on calls with the volunteer fire department I belong to. I don’t think he understands that I can’t answer if I’m out on a call or driving one of our engines. I’ve talked to my girlfriend and her mom about it.
My girlfriend’s dad and I get along very well, so I don’t want to offend him. How do I handle this situation? -- Frustrated Boyfriend DEAR FRUSTRATED: Since you have a good rapport with your girlfriend’s father, consider having a candid conversation with him. Express your appreciation for his eagerness to communicate but clarify your schedule and the demands of your commitments, especially your role with the volunteer fire department.
Perhaps there are specific times during the day when you are more available to chat, or you two can set up a regular time to catch up. This could help him feel connected without disrupting your responsibilities. Take advantage of your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature during meetings or at night but set him (and other important contacts) as exceptions who can reach you in case of an actual emergency.
This way, you manage when and how communication.
