They always say “misery loves company.” Well, whatever the antonym is for “misery,” those folks enjoy it too. The cheery-and-happy-minded also like to be around one another. And as the stench of toxic positivity reaches into my nostrils, I realize there’s something phony about it all. You can’t convince me that everyone, at all times, is that superb.
I have personal evidence to the contrary.
“How’s it going?” Everywhere we hear this hollow inquiry, as if one really wants to know the answer. “Good.” This reply is plain, and it borders on a nonanswer. “I’m doing great!” What looks to be assurance is, in fact, an ambiguity. It could go two ways. Maybe the person really is having a good day – not impossible – or perhaps they’re lying via means of their elation, a smile they’ve forced themselves to wear.
Or, finally: “Not too bad.” Well, now we’re getting closer to the truth. There’s a subtle implication: if only the person was asked yesterday, last week, or last month. Then the answer might’ve been much different.
As for me? How do I answer? “I’m terrible.” This is my typical reply. Sometimes my tone is assertive; more often, it’s said with no fussiness. Either way, it rarely fails to shock. “Did you say terrible!?” What? Going off-script here. This guy isn’t playing the game. What do mean…terrible?! That’s not right. We’re all doing wonderful, all of the time.
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Patten Report to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.