Okay, so I know I'm not the only person who feels like this. I get into an elevator at least three times a day, whether it be at school or in my apartment building. And you're correct, it's always awkward. It's kind of like the awkward silence you experience when your boyfriend breaks up with you face-to-face (except mine did it over text).
But, still, why is it so profoundly awkward? Does getting in an elevator equate to being a different specie who can't talk others in the elevator with them? I'm pretty sure there's not a book on elevator etiquette at least I've never seen one, but here is some elevator awkwardness explained! According to Smithsonian, here are some proven facts about elevators:
1. You don't have enough room, therefore you could feel a bit violated when it comes to personal space.
Today, when I got into an elevator, I was the last person to get on. There were roughly twelve other people, and let's be honest, no one likes it when that last person gets on and it's already packed. Talk about awkward.
2. Usually, when we meet someone for the first time, we have at least an arms length distance between us, and that's not possible in most elevators, causing it to be a very unnatural first contact space.
If you start paying attention to people when you first meet them and the distance in between you two, it all makes a lot of sense. Typically, you stay a bit far in length away from them, maybe in politeness or some other reason. Or, it could not be any specific reason but just the natural human reaction.
3. No one likes being locked in a metal cube on the real, and it's honestly pretty creepy if you think about it.
I don't get why they have to make them metal or so enclosed. It's actually creepy; I would suggest maybe clear glass (with flowers in it?) to ease the enclosed trap feeling. It's actually a really uneasy feeling when you're on an elevator on the daily.
The only good thing about an elevator is, they have been proven to be the safest form of transportation and only about 27 injuries per year occur related to an elevator! Although elevators can be very awkward, it's also convenient and better than taking the stairs. Especially after a long day, when someone hit your car and/or you got fired, no one wants to be taking the stairs. With that being said, elevators are, yes indeed, very awkward. But, at least, your life is safe. Start talking in there people, it won't kill ya (haha)!
