Recently at a restaurant, the waitress touched me on the elbow as she answered a question.
It is a well-known fact, or maybe not, that touching a person indicates closeness, warmth and affection. These are all signs of comfort. Experiments indicate that being touched elicits positive responses. Her touch would have gone consciously unnoticed by the unaware. I, of course, noticed.
The fact that she and I both are aware of the studies did not diminish the effect of the touch. Even though I fully knew what she was doing, the tip I gave her increased by a significant amount. I just could not help but feel positive about the experience.
Since both of you reading this are in the relationships business, you should take note that touching increases the positive effects of the total interaction. Train yourself to touch on the hand or the upper arm. The Magic Touch lasts for less than a second and should be barely noticeable.
By the way, studies also indicate that alcohol consumption also increases tip amounts as does the attractiveness of the wait person. Even though I did consume an appreciable amount of wine that night, I choose to attribute the big tip to the Magic Touch. My story. I’m sticking to it.
Please include your comments below, and let me know what you want me to Moan about next.
Got a burning question for Manny? Send it to mannysmoans@mdpublishing.com, and check back here for an answer soon!