Fun & Famous

whatever you want

There’s once phrase that literally makes my skin crawl and that is when someone responds to a question with: “I don’t mind, we can do whatever you want.”

It’s an answer I get all too often when I ask someone what they want to drink or eat for lunch or dinner. Picture this, I’m cooking dinner for someone that’s coming over to my place. Wait no, scratch that. I’m going to order in take out and I ask them what they’re in the mood for and they respond with: “I don’t mind, we can order whatever you want.” Seriously? ‘Whatever you want?’ You know what, why don’t YOU decide.

This reply comes off as a lack on interest. As in “I don’t give a rats ass so stop bugging me about it already.” It’s not like I’m twisting your arm or anything, it’s just a normal question. Same happens when I ask someone what they want to drink. First reply will be: “What do you have?” and as soon as you list everything you’ve got in your fridge (coke, tea, water, and no, I don’t have coffee), their answer is: I’ll have what you’re having.” THEN WHY THE HECK ARE YOU ASKING WHAT I HAVE IN THE FIRST PLACE? Sigh…

Besides sounding apathetic, I seriously never know what to do. Does my guest want Thai food? Or would they rather have sushi? Perhaps pizza? Having to make these kinds of decisions gives me anxiety, which is then followed by a discussion, resulting in having to wait for what feels like an eternity before we can eat.

If I had to pick between someone that’s got an opinion and someone that’s indecisive, I’ll always go for the first one. Just let me know what you are or aren’t in the mood for. There’s a reason you were born with a mouth and a brain. Sync the two of them so you can both think AND speak. Next time round I’ll treat you to a glass of coke and a pizza. Or a cup of tea and some Thai food if that’s what you want. As long as it’s what YOU want.