Every now and then I'll meet someone, exchange pleasantries and then promptly forget my new acquaintance's name. In some cases, I'm so busy fretting about how to make a great first impression, I never commit their name to memory in the first place, ironically condemning myself to a slew of future awkward encounters.
People tend to be forgiving about name reminders if it's your second meeting. But, at some point, the thought of asking becomes so embarrassing that you'd rather go on for the rest of your life saying "Hey there! How are you doing?" than actually broach the subject.
So, what is the point of no return? Is it after one meeting, two, three?
I tend to think you're in trouble if you haven't figured it out by the third encounter. In which case, I highly recommend adopting a nickname for your new friend to hide the fact that you're an idiot.
Here are just a few endearing nicknames you might use:
- Chief
- Captain
- Love
- Buddy
- Bro
- Shorty
- Man
- Sport
- You
- Pal
- Jam Master J
What works for you?
Photo Credit: ~BostonBill~
4 comments:
On the opposite side, I have a neighbor who calls me "Carol" after living here a year and a half because I never corrected him and then it became too late to do so.
Please tell me you have actually used "Jam Master J."
We have a neighbor that for years we were 70% sure his name was Tom. But avoided calling him Tom for fear that we'll get it wrong, resorting to "hey there." I've even entertained thoughts of sneaking up to his house and checking his mail, but was afraid that will just make the problem worse.
Kevin. I am VERY happy that you're writing again (you might be writing daily, so I'll specify: glad you're writing in a public forum) BUT. I have to say as someone who had the experience of having class with you and QUITE a few awkward 3rd and 4th parties (often Toher himself) that you are starting to sound like someone who is "awkward." For anyone who is reading this blog and has not met Park Street Rambler himself? Kevin is quite easily one of the most sociable people I've met. That said? Keep blogging. I love it.
Thank you!
Thanks, guys! I appreciate your comments and your support.
Molly - I'm flattered. While I do have my share of awkward moments, I'm glad that I seem to be able to balance those out with socially graceful moments.
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