How to Ensure Solitary Lunch: Strategies and Tips

There are numerous instances where one might want to enjoy a solitary lunch without the company of others. Whether it is to escape a difficult situation, seek solitude, or simply maintain privacy, this article provides actionable strategies to ensure you can have your desired peaceful mealtime.

Strategy 1: Avoid Crowded Areas

One of the easiest ways to avoid unwanted company at lunch is to simply stay away from public dining areas. Avoid sitting down in a communal dining facility and instead, find a less obvious spot such as a private room, the restroom, or even your own personal workspace. During my middle and high school days, I ate alone in the AV room, and it worked perfectly. You can also seek out the company of your teacher or another staff member who may be willing to let you have lunch in their room.

Strategy 2: Utilize Private Spaces

Private spaces offer the perfect environment for a solitary meal. Consider eating in a bathroom stall or a private members' club. If you are particularly adventurous, you can even use a broom cupboard. Just make sure the space is clean and private.

Strategy 3: Misdirection and Misleading

You can also trick your potential lunch companions by taking a seat at a small table for two and putting your jacket over the seat nearest to you. Make sure the back of your chair faces away from most of the diners. Then, casually move the other chair to a table that appears to be full. This can create the illusion of having a hidden table for one, ensuring your peace and privacy. Additionally, wearing obvious headphones can enhance your privacy.

Strategy 4: Go Off the Grid

If you really need to avoid contact, seek out the least comfortable environments. Mentioning to others that you feel unwell or act in a manner that suggests you are preoccupied can help. For instance, you can wear a disheveled and untidy outfit, making it appear that you are not in the mood for company. This can effectively steer people away from you.

Strategy 5: Escaping to Alternative Locations

When all else fails, consider escaping to more private environments such as the bathroom or your car during lunch breaks. These locations offer a temporary refuge from unwanted company. Make sure to avoid striking up conversations in a bathroom unless you are comfortable doing so, and keep in mind that people might come to your car during a break, but it is less likely.

Ultimately, the key to enjoying a solitary lunch is to be prepared and proactive. By choosing the right location and adopting a strategy that suits your needs, you can have a peaceful and enjoyable mealtime, free from the company of others.