Saw an article last week that said modern kids are so used to constant digital noise that real quiet feels like a punishment to them. It argued that our parents just shoved us outside with a stick and we had to figure it out, but now that feels impossible. Makes you wonder if those old school cabin trips need a whole new plan.

Actually tried using bookshelves as room dividers in my last place, gave up when they just became dumping grounds for everyone's random stuff. My version of personal space was just staring at a tower of mail and old coffee mugs... not exactly peaceful. Might need to go back to the curtain idea, just with thicker fabric this time.

Oh sure, "set clear boundaries," that sounds like a nice fantasy. I'm with @phoenix_fisher79 on this one, because my relatives hear "work from home" and their brains translate it to "available for constant chatting and chores." Setting a boundary just gets you that look like you kicked a puppy. My favorite is when they act surprised every single time you're actually working, like it's a new hobby you picked up.