As we navigate our extended period of staying at home due to the pandemic, many of us have become quite skilled at engaging in virtual interactions—whether it’s remote learning, work meetings, or online social gatherings. While these digital connections are vital during a time when social interactions are so limited, even the most outgoing individuals can find themselves longing for a break.
Take my friend Mia, for instance. After a long day filled with work and managing her kids’ online classes, she welcomed a virtual get-together with friends. However, after listening to a lengthy discussion on the merits of different coffee brands, she felt the need to exit gracefully. In the past, she could easily excuse herself with a believable reason: “I have to run to the store” or “I need to pick up my children.” But now, with everyone at home, Mia struggled to find a polite way to end the conversation.
Curious about how others have navigated this challenge, I turned to my network on social media and asked for their favorite white lies to escape drawn-out Zoom calls. The responses poured in, highlighting a universal dilemma felt by many.
Common Excuses
Some popular excuses revolved around technology issues—people reported using the classic “Oh no, my WiFi is acting up” or “My laptop just died” to exit a conversation. One effective strategy many shared was simply shutting their computer and sending a quick text, often punctuated with a sad emoji to convey their disappointment at the abrupt end.
Parents had an arsenal of creative excuses as well. Daytime calls would often end with “I need to help my child with their schoolwork,” while evening chats could be cut short with “Sorry, my kids need me for bedtime.” Even those without children found ways to excuse themselves, claiming they had promised to FaceTime their niece or nephew. And for pet owners, the classic “I have to take my dog for a walk” was always an option.
Kids’ Tactics
Interestingly, kids also chimed in with their own unique tactics for disengaging from virtual hangouts. Some simply closed their laptops and walked away, while others crafted elaborate tales, like needing to chase after the family pet mouse. My own child once feigned a stomachache to escape a Zoom class—proving that the urge to find a way out is universal.
The Exhaustion of Virtual Meetings
The reality is that engaging in virtual meetings can be surprisingly exhausting. It may seem counterintuitive; after all, we’re just sitting at home in our comfortable clothes. Yet, the effort of processing non-verbal cues, which typically occurs naturally in face-to-face interactions, can drain our energy quickly. Additionally, seeing our own reflections during calls adds a layer of performance anxiety that can be tiring for anyone.
As Joe Pinsker astutely pointed out, “Fortunately, we are seasoned liars, and up to the test.” These harmless white lies serve as a polite way to exit conversations without causing any awkwardness. It’s reassuring to know that many people share the same need for social interaction while also recognizing when it’s time to recharge. While I cherish every virtual gathering, sometimes it’s simply necessary to say, “I need to take the dog out.”
Additional Resources
For those interested in more tips on home insemination or related topics, check out this post. If you’re looking for reliable products for home insemination, CryoBaby’s intracervical insemination kit is a great resource. And for additional information on pregnancy, visit the CDC’s pregnancy page.
In summary, as we adapt to a world dominated by virtual communication, finding clever ways to gracefully exit lengthy online interactions has become a common practice. Whether through technology mishaps, family obligations, or simply needing a breather, it’s clear that everyone is navigating these new social norms in their own creative ways.