6 Comments
User's avatar
Where the Sidewalk Blooms's avatar

Was the slaw super spicy?

tim's avatar

"Why doesn't anyone approach any more? You can just come up and talk to me any time I'm not wearing headphones." Meanwhile: they wear headphones 100% of the time they're in public.

a real dog's avatar

Have you considered that not everyone wants to interact with you?

A lot of us use airpods to tune out unwelcome, distracting sounds. City living is rough on the brain, especially if you're neurodivergent.

The fact that it acts as a "do not disturb" sign is 100% upside. Why would you want to talk to people who would rather be left alone? Now they have a visible sign so you can avoid being rude and creating an awkward situation for you both.

Mayank Gogia's avatar

Damn, I can totally relate to this!!

It matters a lot. Even these small little interactions in coffee shops and during commutes can stack up and make you a happier person!!

Andrew's avatar

Very nice articel. I also notice the difference when going to NYC from Switzerland for example. I think there will be an analog revolution, and it is already starting in some fringe groups. We will have to see. Bring back the walkman!

Razlyn Lysaught's avatar

As much as I love listening to music whilst writing in some aesthetic coffee shop, I love human interaction much more! I stopped using my AirPods for this reason because they truly are a “do not disturb” sign.