Don’t Be That Guy!

Let’s talk shop—lake shop.

There are only so many fuel and food fill-up stops on the lakes, so there are bound to be waits, which in turn create some opportunities for … our better selves to emerge. So, let’s go over some good ideas for these scenarios.

Fuel:

It’s always a little stressful to pull up to the pumps. So, passengers, relax! The driver will let you know when he/she needs help (so says my husband). No one needs a bunch of “front-seat drivers” adding to the pressure.

Don’t be that guy!

Get your gas, then go. Be considerate. Don’t block the pumps while you wait for all the passenger-customers to come out of the store with their drinks and ice cream or whatever.

Don’t be that guy!

Another good idea: Let your passengers know ahead of time where you may be when they come out. (That’ll be $25 for the couples counseling.)

Food:

Who doesn’t like the ice cream shops?! First, getting ice cream involves big decisions: what kind, how big, what kind of cone. It all takes time. Patience is crucial here because there are all kinds of ice cream fanatics.

FYI: True patience means “cheerful endurance.” Just wait your turn, knowing: 1) Yay, they are getting what they want! and 2) Woo-hoo, soon I will too! So, don’t stand there rolling your eyes or sighing.

Don’t be that guy!

Also, for the true-blue ice cream enthusiast, tasting is crucial. I mean, they offer free tastes so that you are thoroughly satisfied with your selection. “Do unto others”—let people take their time. Remember, you are out on the lake, which means you are NOT in a hurry.

Don’t be that guy!

With that said, keep your tasting to a polite minimum. Two tastes is enough to pick one you like. Remember, there’s always next time. Don’t taste every flavor. (Can I get an “amen” from the back of the line?)

Don’t be that guy!

Lines? Waiting?

Take the opportunity to say hello or to meet people. Reach out! You will be amazed by what you learn—where they are from, who they are, their stories. And it makes the time fly by! Don’t get on your phone like you’re too insecure to face the people around you or too rude to care.

Don’t be that guy!

Alcohol:

A good suggestion is to set your maximum before you start out. Load up once, then when it’s gone, it’s gone. Saves money and time. And dignity. You don’t want to be that loud, thinks-he’s-funny-but-he’s-just-tipsy guy that the whole lake is talking about all summer!

Don’t be that guy!

One last thing. Two words: cover up. Guy or girl, no matter how great you look or whether you care or not, someone doesn’t want to see that. In the infamous words of Steve Carell in Date Night, “For the love of God! Put on a shirt!”

Don’t be that guy!

Now, celebrate! It’s summer!

Get out there, have a great time, become a better you!

And …

Don’t be that guy!