Rethinking the Art of Tipping
Growing up, I learned the value of generosity from my father, a hardworking ironworker who always showed appreciation to those in the service industry. I recall the countless times we drove through the Battery Tunnel, where he would give the toll booth attendant a generous tip, simply because he could. This habit stuck with me, and I’ve always made it a point to be a generous tipper.
However, in recent times, I’ve started to feel like my kindness is being taken for granted. The gratitude that once shone brightly on the faces of those receiving my father’s tips seems to have faded away. A recent experience at a frozen yogurt shop drove this point home.
The self-serve setup allowed me to create my own dessert masterpiece, but when I went to pay, I was prompted to leave a tip. The options ranged from 10% to 20%, with accompanying graphics that promised varying levels of enthusiasm. I instinctively chose 20%, but the cashier’s lack of response left a sour taste in my mouth. No “thank you,” no acknowledgement – just silence.
This encounter made me reexamine my tipping habits and consider setting some ground rules. That’s when I stumbled upon comedian John Crist’s proposal: if you order standing up, you don’t tip. I think this is a great place to start.
Of course, there are exceptions to this rule. Bartenders, for instance, often provide more than just a drink – they offer a listening ear and a comforting presence. Other personal exemptions might include deli workers who offer free samples or coffee shop employees who have your drink ready as soon as you walk in.
By setting these boundaries, I hope to return to a place where I can show appreciation to those who truly deserve it. It’s time to reassess our tipping culture and make sure our generosity is met with gratitude, not expectation.
What do you think? Are you tired of feeling taken advantage of when it comes to tipping? Share your thoughts!
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