Hot take: Not saying hello to every single neighbor is perfectly fine

I live on a busy street where people are always walking their dogs or out gardening. Some folks expect a wave or chat every time they see you, and it gets exhausting. I think it's okay to just keep to yourself sometimes without being rude. Am I wrong for wanting to avoid those small talk traps?

3 comments

3 Comments

terry_thomas1mo ago

Saw my friend hide from a neighbor asking about his dog, @elliotramirez.

elliotramirez1mo ago

Honestly we should get a tax break for every forced neighbor smile we have to do. Like if I stop to pet one more dog I'm gonna start getting quizzed on its kibble brand and vet history. The small talk Olympics out there are brutal, some days just getting the mail feels like a performance review. Pretty soon they'll be handing out fines for not noticing a new garden gnome.

dakotablack29d ago

Wait, ignoring people entirely is different from skipping the chat. A quick nod as you pass by takes zero energy and doesn't commit you to anything. It's the bare minimum that keeps you from looking like a total ghost.