For reasons I can’t quite pinpoint, people always seem to find me approachable. Whether I’m strolling through a grocery store or browsing in a department store, I often find myself engaged in conversations with complete strangers. These exchanges are typically mundane and devoid of flirtation, often initiated by older individuals or women in my age group.
After each encounter, I can’t help but think, “How did that just happen?” I often replay the moment in my head, analyzing my behavior and efforts to avoid eye contact. Upon reflection, I’ve come to realize that a few of my physical traits contribute to this perception of approachability. For instance, I have a round face, perpetually flushed cheeks, and a bit of extra softness around my middle, likely reminding others of a friendly character like Mrs. Claus.
However, the most striking attribute is my resting smile. Even as I write this, I find myself wearing a subtle smile, regardless of the distractions surrounding me. This has been my reality for quite some time. My partner, a true introvert, finds these unsolicited interactions particularly frustrating. Our usual pastime of people-watching turns awkward when random individuals decide to strike up a conversation.
Strangely, this so-called “gift” has proven beneficial in my professional life as a nurse. My naturally cheerful demeanor helps me appear calm and collected, even in chaotic situations. In moments of crisis, I hope a friendly face—even if it belongs to a stranger—can offer comfort to someone in distress.
Yet, there are days when I wish I could embrace the “Resting Bitch Face” (RBF) club. Those individuals stroll through stores without being approached by a stranger eager to chat about their favorite pasta sauce. There are times when I simply crave solitude. My Midwestern upbringing makes it challenging to cut off unwanted conversations, even when I desperately want them to end.
Certainly, there are worse challenges one could face. It’s not that I lack friendliness; I just often find the majority of people to be quite annoying. I prefer social interactions that I initiate myself, but it seems my face has a mind of its own.
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In conclusion, while my cheerful disposition has its advantages, I sometimes wish for the reprieve that comes with having RBF. Engaging in random conversations can be exhausting, and there are moments when I simply prefer to go about my day without interruption.