Some people are just not good at social distancing.  They forget, they really don’t know how, or they don’t care.  I get nervous when people don’t respect my bubble and Chris just takes it in stride.  But if you want to tell someone nicely that they are standing too closely here are some suggestions from Lizzie Post, the president of the Emily Post Institute and the author of several books on modern etiquette, in an article from the Los Angeles Times.

Focus on friendly. Rather than sticking your arm out in a confrontational manner, try saying “I’m sorry but I’m trying to practice physical distancing.  Can you move back a bit?”  If that doesn’t work then move yourself a safe distance away.

Pull the authority card. Tell them the store wants you to stay apart or that the Medical Officer of Health wants you be a certain distance away.

They may not realize what they’re doing. Don’t assume they know how far away they should be. Be gracious.

Move. If you can be the one to get out of the way, do so.

Model good behavior. Show people that you’re willing to be considerate of their space too.

Try to shop in off peak hours and remember the one adult per household rule.  Yes, that means you can’t shop with your husband or wife.  They are trying to limit the number of people in the store at any given time and often have a staff member counting those going in and out.

Filed under: #mellandchris, 927rock, benice, COVID19, physicaldistancing, Shopping, sixfeet