HUMOR AND SATIRE

How to Avoid People You Know in Public Without Looking Like a Jerk

The Art of Dodging

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Why Is This So Hard?

Okay, let’s consider you are walking down the street, minding your own business.

Maybe you are enjoying a rare moment of peace, when suddenly—bam!

You spot someone you know. You know at that moment, you have to do something.
Then gradually, panic sets in. You wonder if you should stop and chat?
Should you pretend you didn’t see them?

This feels literally like an Olympic-level sport!

Seriously, why is it so hard to just politely avoid someone without looking like you are running for your life?

Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash

The Classic Phone Trick

So, let me tell you, here’s my go-to move- the classic “pretend to be on your phone” trick. You know what I’m talking about, right?

You see them from a distance, and before they notice you, are suddenly very interested in whatever’s on your screen.

Maybe you’re “texting,” maybe you’re “checking an important email,” or maybe you’re just scrolling mindlessly.

Photo by nguyen quan on Unsplash

Suddenly you are the busiest person in the world.

But remember, the key is to look focused, like you’re deep in thought. And trust me, it works about 70% of the time - until they catch you anyway.

The Quick Turnaround

Then there’s this one option left - “quick turnaround” technique. This one’s tricky, but if done right, it’s pure magic.

You are walking, you see them, and before they can make eye contact, you have already spun around and headed in the opposite direction.