One day I was riding in an Uber, and though I had requested a ‘Quiet’ ride, my driver kept yapping! In addition to telling me tales about Hollyweird (his word, not mine), he also gave me a piece of advice that I consider invaluable to this day: Always Respond to People.
Why? It’s common courtesy. It shows you have manners. If you gave someone your phone number and they text you, if you don’t want to talk to them, tell them so. If they are asking for something you cannot provide, find a way to say “No.” Say, “I’m not interested.” “I’m so sorry I can’t do that right now.” You can be an adult, direct, and tell people how you feel instead of giving them the silent treatment.
Also, you never really know how the person on the other end will react. Their imagination can get active with reasons why you are not responding, or they can hold a grudge against you forever! Maintain your good karma and just send a quick response.
I can admit, I used to go silent on people when I was in the dating pool. I was no longer interested, so hoped they would ‘take the hint,‘ after I ghosted them for weeks. Sometimes people DON’T take the hint, because they can’t read your mind. And sometimes people are extremely persistent! You know what could have saved me from lots of unwanted texts? Or them from wondering what happened? If I had just been an adult and responded with, “I’m so sorry, I’m no longer interested, but I wish you well.” Case closed.
Now, with Chat GPT, we have no excuse! We can have a robot/technology intervene on our behalf. Tell it the situation, and it will come up with something polite!
What I’ve learned in professional life: Respond! If we are professionals, in the same industry. You will see someone again, and then it will be awkward. You may need them one day. Stop being rude. And respond.
What do you think?
Love & Light,
PS I believe in signs, and while the Uber driver was the most loquacious I have met to date, I believe that he was sent to me to deliver that message. And now, I share it with you.
PSS If someone is harassing you and doesn’t take the hint AFTER you respond, then it’s ok to block them. Gotta love modern technology!
*My dress is by BBX Brand. Image: @Flick.sbyChris
