Andrews McMeel-Miss Manners
The 'Are You Busy?' Trap
Story by Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin And Jacobina Martin




www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/relationship...5c24daddf024c2&ei=52

The dreaded question, 'Are you busy at the moment?'
meaning would you give me a hand with this, usually something you would rather not do. ....

These days I have no problem is saying I'm not busy, but I'm not going to help you, so find someone else .

"I'm always busy, what's up?"
I take it from there and decide
But hey, i keep it simple...

I always have a "honey do" list but if I get caught off guard and get asked "would you watch my kids" the answer will always be "no".

You need a ride somewhere, the most likely answer will be no problem. Of course, if it is go window shopping, no.

It all depends on what, and I have no problem with saying no.

Trap..?
I don't see why asking this question is designed to 'trap' anyone. My answer is usually something like "why, what's happening"?
People who know me well would ask this question - not a complete stranger, so if i happen to be free and able to help, then i will.

I may need their help as well, at some point in the future..who knows.

Are you busy ….can lead to ….fancy going for lunch or coffee or a walk …it needn’t be a negative….. you pessimists

I always ask “are we moving a pool table or a hide-a-bed” before I’ll affirm.

......generally, I'm a "anything I can do" kinda guy, but the years have put their 2 cents in lately, so, if I can, I will. The biggie, "if I can".

I'm always willing to help someone out if circumstances allow and hope others will do the same for me in a time of need.