Let’s talk about hand greetings. If you’re anywhere near as awkward as me, then you understand the constant struggle that is misreading a hand greeting. Many a time have I slid my hand forward to meet another without realizing the intended nature of the initiation. Was that a wave, or a high-five? A handshake or a fist bump? There are so many different ways for hands to interact, and it can be confusing to keep up with them all. So, I decided to compile a list of some of the hand greetings I have come across, in hope of making them more clear not only myself, but for anyone else who has had the misfortune to misread one.

1. The handshake.

This is the classic. Are you in a professional, business-y setting and meeting someone else for the first time? If so, you may be approached by a handshake. Keep calm, all you have to do is grasp the hand and shake it! Be prepared for a finger-crushing tight grip if the other person feels a distinct need to prove their masculinity.

2. The bro hug.

This one has the potential to trip you up, as it begins similarly to a handshake. It starts out with an interlocking hand clasp, followed by a pull in to a one-armed hug. This may be used with someone who makes excessive use of the words “bro,” “dude,” or “man.”

3. The wave.

The simple to and fro movement of the hand. Although it may sometimes be a simple palm in the air. Make sure this is directed toward you, and not the person behind you before you return this gesture.

4. The high-five.

You’ve made an accomplishment! Hit that hand! But make sure you don’t miss. NOT to be confused with a wave.

5. The fist bump.

This can also be an appropriate response to an accomplishment. After you’ve made sure this is not the open palm of a high-five that you’re bumping, go ahead and bump your fist with theirs!

6. The Woogity Woogity Woogity.

You might use this if you are a fictional character from the '90s cartoon, "Rocket Power."

7.The hug.

My personal favorite. Wrap your arms around each other and feel the loving embrace of a warm hug. The world could use more of these, so use this whenever you can.