As we navigate through the ongoing pandemic, many of us have become pros at virtual interactions—be it for work, school, or hanging out with friends. While these digital connections are vital during a time when physical gatherings are limited, even the most introverted among us are feeling the strain of endless online conversations.
I find myself missing those simple excuses that used to help me gracefully exit a chat. Pre-pandemic, I could easily say, “I have to run to the store” or “My kids are calling me.” Now, as I sit at home, the usual reasons to disconnect just don’t apply. Everyone knows I’m available, which makes it challenging to find a polite way to leave a lengthy virtual meetup.
So, I turned to my social media for insights, asking friends for their most creative white lies used to escape drawn-out Zoom or FaceTime calls. The responses were both entertaining and relatable.
Many shared that technical difficulties, like a poor WiFi signal or a dying laptop battery, are popular go-to’s for a quick exit. A simple close of the laptop, followed by a text with a sad emoji, works wonders in these situations. Others mentioned kids as the perfect excuse, whether it’s having to help with schoolwork during the day or bedtime duties in the evening. Those without children found ways to fabricate situations involving their nieces or nephews needing a goodnight chat. And, of course, the classic excuse of needing to walk the dog never fails.
Interestingly, kids also chimed in with their own tactics. Some simply shut their laptops and walked away, while others concocted imaginative excuses, like chasing after a pet mouse. My own son has even faked a stomachache to escape a Zoom class—proof that some things remain the same, even amid a pandemic.
The reality is, engaging virtually can be surprisingly exhausting. It may seem paradoxical, as we’re just sitting in comfy clothes chatting, but the effort required to interpret non-verbal cues and the pressure of seeing our own faces can be draining. As Joe Pinsker aptly noted, “Thankfully, we are seasoned liars and up to the test. Pandemic or no pandemic, innocuous white lies function as a social lubricant, allowing one to keep up an air of politeness while terminating conversations humanely.”
It’s reassuring to know that I’m not alone in seeking a balance between social interaction and the need for downtime. Each virtual meetup brings value, yet sometimes it’s vital to prioritize our energy levels. So, if you’ll excuse me, I have to let the dog out.
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Summary
As virtual connections become commonplace during the pandemic, many find themselves needing creative excuses to exit lengthy online interactions. From technical difficulties to the demands of children and pets, a little white lie can go a long way in maintaining social etiquette while preserving our energy.