posted by Charles H. Russo on Feb 3
You’ve all had that moment when you’re sitting next to a stranger on a bus, standing uncomfortably in an elevator, or many other travel situations where conversations are initiated.
Sometimes a stranger is a friend you haven’t met. Other times you just don’t feel like talking.
Most unwanted conversations can be politely avoided with a brief answer and a curt smile. If they still insist on talking, a few stronger words may be necessary.
In the worst case scenario, you may even sense something off about the stranger. Perhaps even dangerous.
Ideally, we want to avoid the possibility of violence and the unnessary use of self-defense as much as possible. Here are a few tips that might help you avoid confrontation and keep control in critical situations:
1. Befriend others
While waiting for your train or bus to leave or for your plane to take off, try to chat with people, even if you think they are uninteresting. Do this even if it’s out of your comfort zone.
This is valid especially when you need to sleep at night in a train station or in an airport: it’s better to find a boring companion than become prey for undesirable people.
2. Refuse with a smile
When someone insistently offers to help you or give you something, trust your gut. If you’re unsure whether to trust that person or not, refuse the gift with grace. What really matters in these situations is to avoid making enemies.
3. Pretend you don
Leave a Reply