Understanding Personal Boundaries and Social Norms: A Reflection on Greetings and Interactions
In today’s fast-paced social environments, greetings and small gestures often hold significant meaning. However, not everyone is naturally inclined to engage in constant social exchanges, and that’s perfectly okay.
Recently, I found myself reflecting on how social interactions are perceived, especially regarding simple greetings like saying “hi.” Coming from a different background, I was surprised to notice that in my new school, it seems customary for everyone to greet each other regardless of familiarity. Initially, I tried to reciprocate these greetings with everyone I saw, but over time, I realized that my comfort level is different. Now, I tend to greet only those I know personally, offering a smile or a nod to others.
As a senior student, I often find myself exhausted, sometimes sleep-deprived, which makes it challenging to keep track of social norms or participate fully in this constant greeting culture. I worry that others might mistake my silence or minimal interaction for disinterest or rudeness. But the truth is, not everyone is in the mood to chat, and that doesn’t mean they have negative feelings about others.
It’s important to recognize that social norms vary, and a polite smile can be enough to convey kindness. People shouldn’t assume someone’s character or attitude based solely on how much they speak or how often they greet others. Respecting personal boundaries and understanding individual comfort levels are essential aspects of healthy social interactions.
Please note, English isn’t my first language, so I appreciate your understanding if my expressions aren’t perfect. Thank you for reading this reflection on social perceptions and personal boundaries.