Being ahead, even if it’s by just a few seconds, seems to be important to many around here. It’s amazing how much skill and energy many drivers use to be five seconds ahead of someone else at a stoplight. This drive to be first is also apparent in many other places — exiting a theater after a movie, placing an order at an over-the-counter restaurant, paying for groceries, etc. Perhaps it’s the dense population that instills such competitiveness in even everyday activities?
Many times the competition is annoying, especially when I get elbowed or someone casually cuts in front of me after I’ve been waiting in a “line” for a long time. But, sometimes the competition is entertaining (as long as I’m watching from a safe distance). Some folks are quite creative in the methods they use to get ahead. Those methods have to be seen to be believed. But, here are some common methods for getting ahead in a line:
- Look for one inch of space between people. (If someone leaves more than an inch, you’ve been invited to go ahead. Don’t feel guilty about cutting.)
- Don’t make eye contact with anyone. Act like other people don’t exist.
- Look for any space on the counter and start putting your purchases on the counter, as close to the cashier as possible.
- Keep your money ready and visible to the cashier.
