TO HOME LIFESTYLING



The Do not disturb sign - a lifestyle game changer





8.3.22



This Concierge understands the value of privacy in a hotel environment. Guests are unique, have different schedules and possess a variety of privacy needs. The hotel’s do not disturb sign takes this absence of uniformity into account and easily indicates to the hotel staff how to treat each guest during daily service routines. An unobtrusive communication tool (which is located outside the hotel room in the form of electronic light or the iconic door tag), that allows guests and hoteliers to increase pleasing, rather than disruptive, stays.



How do we handle managing interruptions at home? Or do we manage them at all? Let’s look at our daily living and see how homegrown do not disturb signs can be a signal for peace and increase household harmony. Also, if you think this do not disturb messaging is just for restful bedtimes, think again! This tool is a true lifestyle game changer across numerous aspects of daily living.

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Many of us cohabitate with others, but that doesn’t mean that we keep the same schedules or have the same privacy desires. The do not disturb sign at home is a gentle reminder to those in our household that we need a moment of solitude. Here is a sampling of how this tool’s symbol can be utilized in everyday homelife:



While sleeping or napping. Protect this restful time for both adults and infants alike.



Working from home. Don't assume the household knows when you are engaged on a conference or video call!



Yoga time!



Practicing meditation. This activity calls for a dose of serenity.



On an in-home date night. Why not indicate to the kiddos that they need to stay out of the dining room for a candlelight dinner?



Bath time. This sounds obvious, but how many of us have been interrupted during this time?



Gaming or streaming. Nothing changes the tone of a competitive game like mom or dad barging in and asking, “What do you want for dinner?”



Studying or in class. Online educational opportunities abound.



Playtime. This might sound counterintuitive, but many folks yearn for solitude when crafting or making a puzzle.



“Why not leave such a sign on the handle of your own guest room for guests to use accordingly?” – Hotels to Home p.176



These do not disturb signs come in all shapes and sizes. Really anything goes here, but make sure it brings contentment. No sense trying to increase household harmony while at the same time adding an eyesore or a noisy irritant that doesn’t allow you to easily open and shut your door (due to size or weight). Purchase a beautiful one while traveling, create a household do not disturb sign theme (by color, pattern or from a certain locale) or use personalized signs. One family mentioned they preferred signs where one could change the messaging as needed (and every once and awhile, included a silly or snarky comment, keeping the signs fresh and fun). Celebrate true Hotels to Home living in a very personalized fashion.


What about taking the do not disturb sign beyond the home? I recently overheard one guest say, “I need a do not disturb sign at college” to better manage a dorm setting, still another wanted one for the corporate office environment. Funnily, another stated, “I wish I had a do not disturb sign for my dog” as she was often conducting podcast interviews! Opportunities to carve out peaceful places in our daily living are almost limitless, IF (and this one of those big IFs) we remember to communicate our needs to others. Just like a hotel doesn’t know when you need privacy unless you indicate it, you can’t expect your household to fully understand your peace and privacy wishes unless you convey them. So why not give it a try? The do not disturb sign is a gentle communications tool that anyone can utilize, rather effortlessly, to improve daily living contentment.


Peace out!


The Concierge