Avoiding The Hostile Takeover

When attempting to acquire a publicly-traded company, there are two main methods. First, the buyer can contact the company, make an offer, and if the company believes the offer is in the best interest of the shareholders a transaction will follow. This is the most common method. However, sometimes a buyer will simply begin purchasing the company's stock in an effort to gain a controlling share and thus gain control of the company without the express approval of the company being purchased.

What does this have to do with relationships?

In a relationship context, a hostile takeover is launched when a suitor begins purchasing "stock" in the company. "Stock" can be thought of as the assets of the company (remember that you are the company) such as time, attention, etc. Most of the time a suitor will attempt to purchase stock by simply hanging out, engaging in conversation, or asking for a date. These actions require approval of both parties.

However, in a hostile takeover the suitor attempts to purchase stock without express approval. This is what some would consider the guy/gal who is always hanging around, asking you on dates, won't let anyone get a word in edgewise though you've tried to "send the message" you're not interested. They may even get the message but believe that as long as they can discourage other suitors they may wear you down. Never a pretty picture, so how can this be avoided?

Avoiding the Hostile Takeover

First, evaluate your assets. Personally, I find that my time, thoughts, and money are the most easily measured assets I have in a relationship context. I'm kinda selfish with these assets most of the time, so my level of interest in a young lady is usually pretty easily indicated by how readily I give them to her.

Second, you have to always know how assets are being used. A hostile takeover begins when the buyer begins to occupy time, thought, and/or money without consent. Once you see your assets being appropriated you need to move to the next step.

Third, take back your assets. At first the hostile takeover isn't a big deal. You think that they'll "get the message". Just like any relationship issue it involves plain, direct communication. Be considerate, but make it as obvious as a nuclear explosion you're just not interested.

Conclusion

Nobody should have to suffer a hostile takeover. Yes a guy may have to be persistent in the beginning of some relationships, but it won't work in the long run if the lady doesn't grant her approval of the deal.

*Signs a takeover may be in progress already

You consciously avoid the person.
You are annoyed by their presence.
Every distant relative you had has "died" to provide you an excuse to turn down an invitation from this individual.