How to Stop People From Taking Your Things
You work hard for your possessions and it is frustrating when other people think it is OK to take them. Clinical psychologist Matthew Sanders says that it is normal for children to test boundaries by taking things that do not belong to them. The issue becomes more serious, however, when adults -- sometimes including friends and coworkers, are taking your things. By increasing your awareness of what makes you a target for theft, you can take action to stop people stealing your things.
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Instructions
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Put your name and phone number on your valuable possessions.
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Use locks or passwords. If your property is unavailable, it cannot be taken. Lock your door when you are not home. Password protect your computer. Hide codes and keys where others do not have easy access to them.
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Carry items with you if they are small and portable such as laptops and cellular phones.
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If you believe something has been stolen, confront the thief in a calm tone, focusing on the facts. If you are sure of who stole your property, let them know you are aware of their thievery. You can say, "I had $10 stolen from my office when you were the only person alone in there." Even if the thief does not admit to the crime, he will know that you are on to him and the likelihood he will steal from you in the future will decrease. If the theft is serious, contact your local law enforcement agency or the Human Resources Department at your workplace.
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Set a good example. If you do not want others to steal from you, do not steal from them. If you borrow your neighbor's lawnmower for three years and do not return it, this could be construed as stealing. Your behavior may be a sign to him that stealing from you is acceptable.
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References
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