Just Don’t Ask

There are so many examples of questions that don’t deserve an answer. Examples are, “How old are you?”, “How far along are you?”, “Are you ever getting married?”, “When are you going to start a family?” Then there are the questions many people ask without really wanting a true answer. One of these is, “How are you doing?” Now, some people really do want to know because they love you and want to be here for you. And some people really want to know because they are nosey and love gossip. But not most people.

What would happen if you just told the truth? Answered truthfully that you just aren’t really doing that great. What if you said you can’t sleep at night, or you’re worried about losing your job, or that you’re afraid your spouse is cheating on you or that you’re taking care of sick parents or sick kids or sick pets and are exhausted, or that you’re lonely or depressed or financially strapped or so bored with life you can’t stand it. No, you won’t answer the question that way.

“I’m good,” you say, “How are you doing?” you ask, hoping they respond in kind.