The Politeness of Acceptance: Why You Should Let a Dining Partner Eat at Their Own Pace

When dining with others, it's understandable to feel concerned if your dining partner is eating too quickly. However, it's essential to recognize that each person has their own unique eating style, and judging someone for eating too fast can often be an unnecessary and unwelcoming behavior.

The Real Question: Why Are You So Anticipatory?

More often than not, the real question is why am I so officious and controlling that I need to decide the pace at which my dining partner should eat? Unless you are in a professional caregiving role or assisting someone with dementia or a related issue, there is no call for you to be the TableMaster.

Mind Your Own Business

Ultimately, mind your own business. If you don't like it, simply avoid dining with such individuals again. There is no need to overstep your bounds and dictate someone else's dining habits.

Avoid Negative Associations

I have seen stunning examples of fast eating in hot dog eating competitions, but do you really want to be associated with such intense competition? Fast eating in a less competitive setting can be a quirky habit or even a sign of a particular personality. However, it's not a reason to judge or criticize someone harshly.

Choose a Friendly But Diplomatic Approach

Instead of outright criticism, you may want to joke lightly and diplomatically. For example, something like “Hey, you’re not going to starve, there's more food where that came from!” can be a gentle way to acknowledge the situation without offending anyone. Another friendly approach might be, “Damn little lady… you sure can put that away!” (just kidding, of course).

Let Them Decide

No one is better positioned to decide their own pace of eating than the person themselves. It is absolutely none of your business how quickly or slowly someone eats. This is a personal preference, and it's not your job to change it.

Stay Neutral and Respectful

Even if you find a dining partner's eating habits obnoxious or unusual, it's necessary to remain neutral and respectful. The world is already full of people like Karens, who micromanage and judge others. You don't want to add to that by constantly criticizing someone for their eating habits.

Conclusion

Respecting a dining partner’s autonomy in their eating habits is a fundamental aspect of good manners and social etiquette. Judging someone for eating too quickly is an unnecessary intrusion, and adopting a polite and accepting attitude will foster a more positive dining experience for all.