How Do I Get Past His Annoying Habits?

Everybody has a few annoying habits, mannerisms or expressions. You have them, too. The fact is, most of them become invisible within a few weeks.

Still, there are many kinds of habits that will continue to annoy you, so first you have to decide if you can live with them or not. You have to consider if it’s just “you,” or if the habit is really annoying to a lot of people.

If it’s something gross, you will have to train him — spitting, picking his nose, scratching his package in public. You just have to confront him with a nice smile and tell him, “Honey, I really like you, but…” If he wants to be near a great girl like you and in your good graces, he’ll work on it.

If it’s something you can’t stand, but he won’t stop (like smoking or chewing tobacco), then you have three choices: Get him to agree not to do it around you, give him an ultimatum (you or the cigarettes) or move on.

Habits are things we do without thinking and might not even be aware of. By drawing his attention to the annoying behavior, he may eventually be able to catch himself before the action is played out. But, if he snaps his gum or snorts when he laughs, is that really so bad?

Try giving him a little “girl punch” on the shoulder to draw his attention to it every time he does these things, or point it out with a snort of your own, and maybe he will learn to control the behavior you don’t like. This is also an effective way to help him curb his cursing. Just be sure to keep it light or humorous, and don’t become overbearing about it.