Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: social norms

  • The Unspoken Rules of the Public Bathroom Line

    The Unspoken Rules of the Public Bathroom Line




    The Unspoken Rules of the Public Bathroom Line

    The Day I Became a Public Bathroom Line Vigilante

    Picture this: a crowded concert venue, the bass thumping in my chest, and the sudden, urgent realization – I need to use the restroom. Now.

    Navigating my way through a sea of dancing bodies, I finally reach my destination – only to be met with a queue that seems to stretch into another dimension. As I join the line, a sense of camaraderie washes over me. We’re all in this together, united by our shared biological imperative.

    But then, it happened. A woman, seemingly oblivious to the silent agreement that binds us, waltzed past the line and attempted to sneak into a stall. A collective gasp rippled through the queue. It was a blatant disregard for the unspoken rules, and we, the seasoned veterans of countless bathroom lines, weren’t having it.

    What followed wasn’t pretty (think a chorus of “end of the line” and some serious side-eye), but it cemented my role as a lifelong advocate for public bathroom line etiquette. So, in the interest of maintaining order and sanity in these hallowed halls, I present to you – the unspoken rules of the public bathroom line.

  • The Unspoken Rules of Being a Line-Stander (And Why I’m Now an Expert)

    The Unspoken Rules of Being a Line-Stander (And Why I’m Now an Expert)

     

    My Line-Standing Baptism by Fire

    Let’s be honest, nobody enjoys waiting in line. But then there are those moments, those glorious, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that require… well, standing in line. Like that time I waited 12 hours for the Star Wars premiere. Yes, 12 hours. It’s a period of my life I refer to as my “line-standing baptism by fire.”

    I went in a naive rookie; I emerged a seasoned veteran of the queue. I had seen it all: line-cutters, bathroom break negotiations, the camaraderie of shared misery (and snacks). I learned the hard way that there’s an unspoken code of conduct in the world of line-standing. So, my friends, allow me to impart my hard-earned wisdom.

    Rule #1: Thou Shalt Not Cutteth the Line

    This should go without saying, but apparently, it doesn’t. Cutting in line is a cardinal sin, punishable by a thousand death glares (and possibly a stern talking-to). We’ve all been there, patiently inching forward, only to have someone waltz in with an air of entitlement and try to squeeze in front of us. Don’t be that person.

    Pro-tip: If someone tries to pull this stunt on you, a simple “Excuse me, the back of the line is that way” delivered with a friendly smile (and a pointed finger) usually does the trick.

    Rule #2: The Art of the Bathroom Break

    Nature, as they say, waits for no man (or woman). And when you’ve been holding your bladder for an hour, desperately hoping you don’t miss your spot in line, things can get dicey. Here’s the protocol:

    • The Buddy System is Key: Always, and I repeat always, have someone hold your place. This isn’t the time to make new friends – enlist a trusted companion in your line-standing adventure.
    • Keep It Brief: This isn’t your time to scroll through social media or catch up on emails. Get in, do your business, get out.
    • Express Gratitude: A sincere “thank you for holding my spot” upon your return is not only polite but also helps avoid any awkwardness.

    Rule #3: Embrace the Shared Experience (and Snacks!)

    Look, I get it. Standing in line can be tedious. But it can also be an opportunity to connect with your fellow humans (and maybe even make a friend or two). Strike up a conversation. Share a laugh (or a groan) about the wait time.

    And for the love of all that is holy, bring snacks. Sharing is caring, people. I once made a lifelong friend over a bag of gummy bears while waiting for a roller coaster. (Okay, maybe not lifelong, but we did exchange numbers. And isn’t that what really matters?)

    So, Are You Ready to Stand in Line Like a Pro?

    There you have it. My crash course in the unspoken rules of line-standing. Now go forth and conquer those queues, my friend! What are your most memorable (or disastrous) line-standing experiences? Share your stories in the comments below!

  • The Unspoken Rules of Being a Public Transit Passenger

    The Unspoken Rules of Being a Public Transit Passenger



    My Public Transit Initiation: A Crash Course in Subway Etiquette

    I’ll never forget my first solo ride on the subway. Fresh out of high school, armed with a brand new MetroCard, and a map I swore I understood, I confidently descended into the urban underworld. Little did I know, I was about to get a crash course in the unspoken rules of public transit etiquette.

    backpack and accidentally elbowing someone in the face (sorry again!), I finally found a seat. Relief washed over me… until I realized I was practically sitting on the lap of the person next to me. It was then I learned the delicate art of the “subway spread” – a skill that takes years to master.

    Public Transit Etiquette: Mastering the Art of the Invisible Wall

    Speaking of personal space, let’s talk about the “invisible wall.” We all know it’s there. That invisible barrier we erect around ourselves on crowded buses and trains. It’s a delicate dance, really. You want to be close enough to maximize space efficiency, but not too close that you’re invading someone’s personal bubble. And heaven forbid you make eye contact. That’s a surefire way to break the unspoken code.

    Once, on a particularly packed commuter train, I witnessed a rookie mistake. A man, clearly new to the public transit game, sat down next to a woman and proceeded to strike up a conversation. Not just any conversation, mind you, but a full-blown interrogation about her life story, complete with animated hand gestures that nearly took out my left eye. The look on the woman’s face was priceless – a mix of horror, amusement, and a desperate longing for noise-canceling headphones.

    Backpack Etiquette on Public Transit: To Carry or Not to Carry?

    Ah, the backpack. The bane of many a commuter’s existence. We’ve all been there – stuck behind someone who seems oblivious to the fact that their oversized backpack is taking up the space of three people. Here’s a pro-tip, folks: when you’re on a crowded train or bus, take your backpack off and hold it in front of you. Your fellow passengers will thank you.

    One time, I was on a bus so crowded that people were practically hanging from the rafters. And there he was, Mr. Oblivious, with his gigantic backpack swinging from his shoulders like a wrecking ball. People were getting knocked left and right. Finally, a brave soul (bless her heart) tapped him on the shoulder and politely asked him to remove his backpack. His response? “But it’s heavy!” The collective groan from the passengers was almost audible.

  • The Unspoken Rules of Elevator Etiquette (and Why I Break Them All)

    The Unspoken Rules of Elevator Etiquette (and Why I Break Them All)



    My Personal Elevator Everest

    Let’s be honest, elevators are weird. They’re these metal boxes that transport us through the bowels of buildings, crammed with strangers we avoid eye contact with at all costs. And yet, there’s this invisible rulebook we’re all apparently handed at birth dictating how to navigate this 30-second journey without causing a social faux pas.

    Take, for instance, my latest elevator adventure. Picture this: I’m running late for a meeting (shocker, I know), coffee sloshing precariously in hand. I make it just as the doors are closing, flinging myself in with a breathless, “Hold the door!” Everyone stares. My triumphant grin falters. The weight of their judgment (or maybe it was just the awkward silence) felt heavier than my overflowing inbox.

    elevator etiquette violation. And you know what? I’m okay with that.

    The Silent Treatment: An Elevator Etiquette Faux Pas?

    Rule number one of Elevator Club: Thou shalt not speak. Apparently, engaging in conversation within the confines of an elevator is a social sin worthy of banishment to the basement (which, ironically, is where the elevator would probably take you anyway).

    Listen, I get it. We’re all tired, rushing to important meetings, or just trying to mentally prepare for whatever fresh hell awaits on the next floor. But can we at least acknowledge each other’s existence with a polite nod or a “Good morning”? Anything but the deafening silence that currently reigns supreme.

    Elevator Button Etiquette: To Press or Not to Press?

    Ah, the age-old question: Do you press the button for someone else, even if it means stretching your arm across their personal space bubble? Or do you just stand there awkwardly while they struggle to reach?

    Here’s my take: if you see someone struggling, offer to help! It’s a simple act of kindness that won’t result in you spontaneously combusting (probably). And if someone offers to press the button for you, accept their chivalry with grace. Unless they’re pressing all the buttons. Then run.

  • The Unspoken Rules of Being a Line-Stander (And Why I Excel at Them)

    The Unspoken Rules of Being a Line-Stander (And Why I Excel at Them)




    The Unspoken Rules of Being a Line-Stander (And Why I Excel at Them)


    My Line-Standing Epiphany

    It happened at a Comic-Con, years ago. I was young, naive, and desperate to get my hands on a limited-edition action figure. The line? Oh, the line was a mythical beast, snaking through the convention center and probably visible from space. It was then, amidst the throngs of equally-eager fans, that I had my line-standing epiphany. This wasn’t just standing; it was an art form, a silent ballet of patience, strategy, and bladder control.

    Rule #1: Thou Shalt Master the Art of the Placeholder

    Let’s be real, iron bladders are a myth. We all need bathroom breaks, coffee refills, and moments to stretch our poor, line-weary legs. This is where the art of the placeholder comes in. A well-placed backpack, a strategically abandoned sweater, or (if you’re feeling bold) a cardboard cutout of yourself can mark your territory while you answer the call of nature/caffeine.

    Pro-tip: Always inform your line neighbors of your temporary departure. It’s just good line etiquette, people!

    Rule #2: Know Thy Line Neighbors (But Respect the Bubble)

    Lines, like life, are all about balance. You want to be friendly (misery loves company, after all), but you also don’t want to be that person who won’t stop talking about their cat/Star Wars fan fiction/conspiracy theories.

    Here’s a handy guide to acceptable line conversation topics:

    • The weather (classic, always reliable)
    • Speculation about what’s at the end of the line (Is it a pot of gold? A unicorn? Another line?)
    • Brief, non-intrusive compliments (“I like your shoes!”)

    What you don’t want to do is invade personal space. Remember, everyone in line is operating under a shared agreement of non-aggression, held together by the fragile hope of whatever awaits us at the front. Respect the bubble.

    Rule #3: Patience, Young Padawan

    This is it, the golden rule of line-standing: Patience. You will be tempted. You will question your life choices. You will see people cutting the line, and a small, feral part of you will consider joining them on the dark side. Resist!

  • The Unspoken Rules of Grocery Store Etiquette (And Why I Break Them All)

    The Unspoken Rules of Grocery Store Etiquette (And Why I Break Them All)




    The Unspoken Rules of Grocery Store Etiquette (And Why I Break Them All)


    My Cart, My Chaos

    The other day, I was at the grocery store, balancing a pineapple, a bag of onions, and a gallon of milk precariously on top of a mountain of miscellaneous items in my cart. A fellow shopper gave me the side-eye. I knew that look. It was the “you’re doing it wrong” look, the “your chaotic cart offends my delicate grocery shopping sensibilities” look.

    Listen, I get it. There are certain unspoken rules of grocery store etiquette. Rules like “thou shalt not block the aisle with thy cart” and “thou shalt not use the express lane with 20 items.” But sometimes, my friends, sometimes a rebel has to take a stand. Sometimes, a maverick must forge her own path, even if that path is littered with stray grapes and a dented can of beans.

    The Express Lane Showdown: My Grocery Store Sins

    One of the most sacred grocery store rules is the sanctity of the express lane. 12 items or less, they say. 15 max, if you’re feeling bold. Me? I laugh in the face of danger (and item limits). My motto? “12 items or less” is a suggestion, not a law.

    I once went head-to-head with a particularly disgruntled woman over my overflowing basket in the express lane. She muttered about rules and glared daggers at my off-brand cereal choices. Did I back down? Did I cower in the face of her judgment? No, dear reader, I did not. I channeled my inner grocery store warrior and met her gaze with a smile. “Live a little,” I whispered, as I unloaded my 23 glorious items onto the conveyor belt.

    Photo of a hand reaching for a tray of free samples at a grocery store
  • The Unspoken Rules of Being a Line-Stander (And Other Odd Social Observations)

    The Unspoken Rules of Being a Line-Stander (And Other Odd Social Observations)




    The Unspoken Rules of Being a Line-Stander (And Other Odd Social Observations)


    Confessions of a Line-Standing Enthusiast (Or Not)

    So, the other day I found myself in a queue that snaked longer than a python at a buffet. It got me thinking: why are there so many unspoken rules about standing in line? We learn about grammar, table manners, and how to not eat glue, but line etiquette? That’s apparently a whole other curriculum.

    And it’s not just lines. Our social fabric seems woven with these invisible threads of expected behavior, these unwritten commandments of “thou shalt” and “thou shalt not” that nobody actually tells you about.

    The Line-Stander’s Creed: A Guide to Queue Decorum

    First, let’s tackle the obvious. Lines, queues, those human caterpillars inching towards a shared goal – they’re practically microcosms of society. Here’s a crash course in their silent language:

    • The Buffer Zone: This is sacred ground, people. Maintain a perimeter of personal space around the person in front of you. Imagine an invisible hula hoop – don’t make them wear it.
  • The Unspoken Rules of Elevator Etiquette (and Why I Break Them All)

    The Unspoken Rules of Elevator Etiquette (and Why I Break Them All)

    My Personal Elevator Everest

    The other day, I found myself in an otherwise uneventful elevator ride when it hit me: I am an elevator anarchist. Not in the sense of prying open the doors between floors or anything (that would be dangerous, kids!). But in the subtle, subversive ways I reject the unwritten code of conduct we’ve all come to accept in these metallic boxes of vertical transport.

    It all started with a harmless whistle. I was in a particularly good mood that day, sunshine radiating off my face like a personal spotlight, and a jaunty tune escaped my lips. The reactions were instantaneous: eyebrows shot up faster than the elevator itself, heads swiveled away like I’d sprouted a second head, and the air thickened with disapproval. It was like I’d committed the ultimate elevator faux pas.

    The Silent Treatment (and Other Elevator Etiquette Atrocities)

    We’ve all been there. Packed like sardines in a metal box, desperately avoiding eye contact and pretending the person mere inches away doesn’t exist. It’s the unspoken rule of elevator etiquette: thou shalt not acknowledge thy fellow passengers. But why? Is a simple “good morning” really going to shatter the delicate fabric of elevator reality?

    And don’t even get me started on the button-pushing protocol. Heaven forbid you accidentally hit the wrong floor button! The judgmental stares, the heavy sighs, the audible gasps of horror—it’s enough to make you want to take the stairs for the rest of your life.

    Here’s a revolutionary thought: what if, instead of treating elevators like moving sensory deprivation chambers, we actually, you know, acted like normal human beings? Imagine a world where brief, pleasant exchanges weren’t met with suspicion, where a simple “going up?” could brighten someone’s day.

    My One-Woman Elevator Etiquette Rebellion

    Look, I get it. Elevators can be awkward. We’re all crammed together in a confined space, silently judging each other’s choice of footwear and desperately hoping nobody smells our coffee breath. But I refuse to let these anxieties dictate my behavior. I will not be silenced! I will not be cowed by the tyranny of the “close door” button!

    These days, I make a conscious effort to break the mold. I smile at strangers (gasp!). I hum along to the elevator music (the horror!). I even—brace yourselves—engage in small talk (cue the dramatic music). And you know what? The world hasn’t ended yet. In fact, I’ve even had a few surprisingly delightful conversations in that most unlikely of places: the elevator.

    So, I Ask You, Dear Reader…

    Are you with me? Are you ready to join the elevator revolution? Or are you content to remain trapped in the suffocating silence of social convention? The choice is yours. But remember, life is too short for awkward silences and missed connections. So go forth, my fellow elevator rebels, and spread the gospel of human interaction, one floor at a time.

  • The Unspoken Rules of Grocery Store Etiquette (and Why I Break Them All)

    The Unspoken Rules of Grocery Store Etiquette (and Why I Break Them All)

    Let’s be honest, we’ve all been there. It’s 7:00 PM on a Tuesday, you’re starving, and the only thing standing between you and a semi-nutritious dinner is a trip to the grocery store. We’ve all experienced the unique brand of chaos that unfolds within those fluorescent-lit aisles. But amidst the overflowing carts and frantic shoppers, there exists a secret code of conduct, a set of unwritten rules that dictate the grocery-getting experience. And me? Well, I’m here to confess – I’m a serial rule breaker.

    The Case of the Rogue Sample-Taker

    Ah, the free samples. Those little beacons of culinary delight strategically stationed to lure you in. But here’s the unspoken rule: take one, maybe two, and move along. I, however, operate under the firm belief that the limit on free cheese cubes is a figment of society’s imagination. Have I shamelessly hovered around the mini-quiche station, accepting one too many toothpicks full of deliciousness? Maybe. Do I regret it? Not one bit.

    Express Lane Exposé: 15 Items or Less? Please.

    The express lane: a haven for those seeking a speedy checkout. But it comes with a caveat, a commandment etched in the grocery store tablets: “15 Items or Less.” Now, I consider myself an optimist, a glass-half-full kind of gal. So, when I’m juggling 17 items (okay, maybe 20), I choose to believe that those “items” are open to interpretation. A bag of limes? One item. A container of blueberries? Also, one item. Never mind that they’re nestled amongst 18 other “single” items. Who am I to dismantle this perfectly logical system?

    The Art of Strategic Cart Abandonment

    We’ve all seen it – the abandoned cart, stranded in the middle of the aisle like a shipwreck in a sea of cereal boxes. An obstruction of epic proportions. And while I wouldn’t dream of leaving my own cart haphazardly blocking the path to the Oreos, I’ve been known to engage in a little…strategic maneuvering. Let’s just say that sometimes, when faced with a particularly stubborn cart blockade, I channel my inner race car driver and execute a skillfully evasive maneuver (or two). Is it wrong? Possibly. Is it efficient? Absolutely.

    The Verdict: Guilty as Charged (and I Wouldn’t Have It Any Other Way)

    So there you have it, my confession. I break the unspoken rules of grocery store etiquette, and you know what? I’m okay with it. Because sometimes, you just gotta embrace the chaos and grab that extra mini-quiche. After all, life’s too short to follow all the rules, especially in the wild and wacky world of grocery shopping. Now, tell me, dear reader, what unspoken grocery store rules do you secretly break?

  • The Unspoken Rules of Elevator Etiquette (and the People Who Break Them)

    The Unspoken Rules of Elevator Etiquette (and the People Who Break Them)




    The Unspoken Rules of Elevator Etiquette (And How to Avoid Breaking Them)


    My Personal Elevator From Hell

    We’ve all been there. Packed into a metal box hurtling through the floors of an office building, desperately trying to avoid eye contact with strangers. Yes, I’m talking about the dreaded elevator ride.

    Just the other day, I found myself in an elevator situation so awkward, it could only be described as a scene straight out of “The Twilight Zone.” Picture this: I’m squished between a guy loudly discussing his fantasy football league on speakerphone and a woman who seems to think her perfume is a superpower.

    elevator ground to a halt between floors. The speakerphone dude’s triumphant roar (“Yes! Touchdown, baby!”) was cut short, and even the perfume lady seemed fazed. We were trapped.

    This experience got me thinking about the unspoken rules of elevator etiquette, those subtle social contracts we make to survive these short, strange journeys together. So, for the sake of humanity, let’s break them down, shall we?

    Rule #1: Respect the Elevator Bubble

    Personal space. We all crave it, especially in the confines of an elevator. Yet, some people seem to forget the concept of a personal bubble the second those elevator doors slide shut. They stand too close, their backpack smacks you in the face, their loud conversation invades your thoughts.

    Remember folks, an elevator is not your personal phone booth or karaoke stage. It’s a shared space, so let’s try to maintain a respectful distance and keep the volume down.

    Rule #2: The Elevator Button: A Sacred Duty

    Ah, the button pusher. The designated hero of the elevator ride, responsible for ensuring everyone reaches their desired floor. This is a position of power, not to be taken lightly.

    Don’t be the person who frantically presses the already-lit button for their floor. Don’t be the person who tries to squeeze past everyone else to reach a button when someone closer could easily do it. And for the love of all that is holy, do not, I repeat, DO NOT hold the elevator door for your buddy who’s running late while everyone else watches in silent agony.