March 19, 2018
Image Source: Alma Compagnone / EyeEm / Getty
For reasons I can’t quite pinpoint, I tend to come across as approachable. While strolling through a store, I often find myself in conversations with various individuals. These exchanges are usually trivial, lacking any flirtation, and often involve either older adults or peers of my own age.
Every time this occurs, I walk away thinking, “How did that even happen?” I find myself retracing my steps and analyzing my body language, desperately trying to avoid eye contact.
Through some deep self-reflection, I’ve identified a few physical traits that likely contribute to my perceived friendliness. I have a round face, perpetually flushed cheeks, and a soft middle—probably reminiscent of a cheerful figure like Mrs. Claus. Most notably, I possess what many refer to as a ‘resting smile.’ Even as I write this, I can feel a slight grin on my face, regardless of the distractions surrounding me.
This has been my norm for quite some time. My partner, Sam, is an introvert who finds these spontaneous interactions quite vexing. Our usual pastime of people-watching often turns awkward when strangers decide to engage me in conversation.
On the flip side, this “condition” has its advantages in my professional life. As a nurse, maintaining a resting smile is beneficial. It helps convey calmness, even amid chaos. I hope that during moments of crisis, seeing a friendly face—even one belonging to a stranger—can provide some comfort.
However, I can’t help but envy those who possess what is commonly known as “Resting Bitch Face” (RBF). These individuals can navigate grocery stores without being pulled into discussions about someone’s favorite pasta sauce. There are days when I long for that peace. My Midwestern upbringing has instilled in me a sense of politeness that makes it difficult to extricate myself from unwanted conversations, even when I crave solitude.
Of course, there are far worse things to contend with. It’s not that I’m unfriendly; I just find many social interactions to be quite tedious. I prefer to engage on my own terms, but it seems that my face has other plans.
If you’re interested in exploring more about home insemination, check out this resource for additional insights. For those seeking expert guidance on the subject, Make A Mom provides valuable information on at-home insemination kits. Additionally, for comprehensive services related to pregnancy and fertility, the Johns Hopkins Fertility Center is an excellent resource worth exploring.
Summary:
In this reflection, I share my experiences of being perceived as approachable and the unexpected social interactions that ensue. While my friendly demeanor serves me well in my nursing career, I often find myself longing for the solitude that those with Resting Bitch Face enjoy.