ADVERTISEMENT

We tend to go through life accepting a lot from society. We use these pieces of paper to buy things? Got it. I must work somewhere to earn more paper to ensure I can eat and have shelter? Yes sir. We must abide by rules the government decided on even if we disagree with them? Okay, sure. If we questioned everything that society considers normal, we’d go crazy. But recently, Reddit users have been discussing some socially acceptable things that upon further reflection, they decided they’ll never do.

2 months ago, Reddit user fuzziblanket asked, “What is something considered to be ‘normal’ by society that you refuse to do?” We’ve gone through the responses and curated this list of some of the most interesting topics that you may have never even questioned before. Whether you commonly do these activities or not, enjoy reading through them and determining if you still consider them normal. Be sure to upvote the answers you’d like other pandas to see, and let us know in the comments what “normal” things you’d never be caught doing. 

Then if you’re looking for another Bored Panda piece pointing out odd yet socially acceptable things, look no further than right here.

#1

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) recording yourself doing an act of charity or a good deed in general. completely devalues it the second you hit post

yzmasmomi Report

What’s considered “normal” is determined by society, but there are many societies around the globe that have their own quirks. In the United States, for example, it’s totally normal to drive your car anywhere you go, even if it’s just a mile away because there might not be decent sidewalks or crosswalks to get to your destination. In many other countries where roads are built to better accommodate pedestrians, this would be considered bizarre. It’s also normal in many European countries for kids to walk or bike to school by themselves, especially when they’re about 8-years-old or older. This would be very rare in the US. Even when in their own neighborhood, American kids are usually expected to have adult supervision at all times. When paying at a restaurant in the US, patrons typically hand the server their card, the server takes it to their computer, and then they return with the receipt. If a server in a European country tried to walk off with someone’s credit card, the customer might assume they were being robbed. Societal norms vary greatly based on where you are, so there's nothing wrong with questioning them. They might be more arbitrary than you think!

ADVERTISEMENT
#2

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Forbidding my (straight male) partner to spend time with female friends. He's a grown-a*s man; he should know how to hold healthy boundaries. It shouldn't be on me to keep him from cheating. If he's really gonna fall into the pants of the first girl I leave him alone with, she can have him.

Similarly, blaming someone else for my partner's failings, and/or trying to "win back" someone who doesn't want me. He's a big boy who can make his own choices (even bad ones), and I want a partner who wants to be with me, not someone I had to talk into staying.

(For the record, my dudeman of 20 years is awesome.)

sasstoreth Report

Add photo comments
POST
sarahspencer avatar
Sarah Spencer
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyone that enters into a relationship and starts setting the terms and conditions of their new partners interactions is definitely not a healthy person to be with!

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#3

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) I don't know if it's been mentioned already, but I'll throw in my 5 cents.

The need to be available 24/7, i.e. always having your phone on you.
I like going for long walks and leaving my phone at home. I don't feel guilty for missing texts or calls, it's just stressful being expected to be available all hours of the day.

The_Fireblasted Report

Add photo comments
POST
cinzabeary avatar
LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's sad times when people are apologizing for not responding within a minute to a text. I have to tell friends to chill out. A text is not going to disappear. We all have other priorities and no one should expect anyone to stop their lives all of a sudden to engage in a conversation out of the blue.

buddyjackson avatar
Uncle Bud
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I routinely leave my phone at home. It annoys some people when I don't take my phone with me but I enjoy some free time where I don't want to be contacted.

Load More Replies...
midoribirdaoi avatar
Midoribird Aoi
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My phone is on me for the sake of emergencies, but otherwise it is always on silent and with the volume completely down, when I don't want to be bothered or am at work.

erin_16 avatar
GirlFriday
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have had this conversation with the executives at my job. I love what I do for a living, but when I am not at work, I lead an unplugged life. I don't get on social media much, I am not big on video games (not there is anything wrong with gaming, just not my thing), and I often leave house without my phone. My job isn't saving lives so if someone can't reach me at 10AM on a Sunday, so be it.

jessica-cicale avatar
ItsJess
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

YES I miss the days of going out with friends and coming home to some messages on my machine. You were very present in whatever you were doing, not focused on ten other things.

jillolvera avatar
Fancy that
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was at dinner with a group of friends. They were all texting on their phones the 1st part of a meal.. Halfway through I told them that I was a real live person and that I was worth speaking to.. I got up and left.

Load More Replies...
lsgm2fw avatar
Zoe's Mom
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

May not be relevant but I have a 'dog-park' family and they text EVERYTHING in their life. It's draining. I wait until the end of the day and scan the texts. If it's not important, it's deleted. If it requires a reply, they get it late. Nothing has ever been an emergency and I doubt if it was, they would be texting the dog park group.

sushi_detour_0m avatar
Boris Long-Johnson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

God help you if you work in IT (or a lot of other jobs). 50% of the year on 20 minute response (ie call back from a text then be logged in within 20mins to fix the issue). On the other hand the other 50% of the time I often turn my phone off!

zeroflight avatar
Zero
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My previous job I'd get calls at 9, 10, 11pm and all day on the weekends by the owners because they don't know how to maintain a work-life balance and generally not work. At my current place, I've been told they'll only call if it's an actual emergency, and they haven't called yet. It's been almost a year and I still haven't gotten used to it.

Load More Replies...
hjackgerdes avatar
Ein Steinbeck
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't leave your phone at home. What if you have an accident?

brokenroads2 avatar
Mike Dickerson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What if you had an accident 40 years ago when no one carried cellphones all the time? What if you were in an area with no cell coverage? It could happen, and thems the breaks. There no need, NO need, for one to carry a cell phone 100% unless you are in a job where being available 24/7 is a requirement. You can live without the little black.box for more than five minutes. I know because I do.it every day.

Load More Replies...
valisbourne avatar
Valisbourne Spiritforge
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get home, the phone goes into it's spot, on mute and charging. If you want me at home, you have to CALL me on the landline or just leave me a text.

davidbrown_12 avatar
David Brown
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Folks have totally forgotten what life was like before cell phones. I loved it. Bosses couldn't guilt me into working when they were short handed because the only phone I had was at home. Needy friends couldn't call constantly wanting something. And best of all, when you wanted piece and quiet you could have it without the constant notifications and random phone calls.

veronicasjberg avatar
Tigerpacingthecage
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes. And when I'm off work I am off work. Don't call me with questions - I'm not paid nearly enough to be on call 24/7.

leensayguilloteau avatar
Leensay Guilloteau
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Facts but sometimes u need the extra cash. But some ppl will go to work even if it on their day off like that day is for u to rest not killing yourself

Load More Replies...
j_bold1 avatar
Jc Bold
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am constantly getting it in the neck for this. I dunno where my phone is most of the time, and it is ALWAYS on silent. 'Why didn't you pick up?' Don't care.

janbartosz avatar
ElchMoose
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can't relate to this. I've never gotten myself into that kind of a mindset. It's like I'm still living in the late 90s/early 00s. I do feel like an alien when people talk about it though. I ran into difficulties because of this, such as a job I had where the boss often texted stuff in the early evening (while I usually started working around 5am). It's gotten worse after I had a surgery with long recovery time during which the boss demanded quick replies.. In the end I was fired for "lacking communication" despite me keeping the boss up to date about any extentions of my sick leave (the doc decided that) all the while they also knew what surgery I had and with what complications - legally I didn't have to tell them any of this. Anyway, in other situations people calling or texting me act so incredibly surprised when I just don't answer right away. I don't care what time of the day or night it is, if I can't or don't want to answer at the time, then it's just not happening.

achaiadust avatar
Liam Lowenthal
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You know there's a do not disturb mode right? It's a little silly to assume your priorities should be everyone else's. I keep my phone on me all the time for the dumb little games I play while waiting an hour for the doctor to see me. Maybe I just don't want to stare at a wall and check out huh?

breannecoish avatar
Breezy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The "Do not distrube" button on my phone is a life saver!!

kitayawolfe avatar
Mizz Kitty
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish I could do this sometimes but, I'm a woman. Can't go anywhere without a phone and pepper spray. And my boss may text, needing me to come in that day or the next. It's just not possible for me.

mikestancil avatar
The other Mike
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I went walking (before my stroke). I took my phone with me not to stay in touch, but so I could keep track of time. I would also listen to music or play Pokémon Go.

wydd-wxxp-wyep avatar
Bamboo Panda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I remember the days of not having the "convenience" of immediate communication, and I agree that we don't HAVE to be immediately accessible 24/7/365 just because we CAN be. Ongoing emergencies are an exception, of course, but hopefully those are rare for most people. I do usually have my phone on me, even on a quiet walk (in quiet/data-off mode), just in case.

lisettemccown_1 avatar
LittleLiz
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm scared I'll be in danger, so I always have my phone when I leave the house

kkermes avatar
Kim Kermes
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I keep my phone on me at all times for my safety. Ignoring calls is not a problem, and if need be, I mute it.

alisonkennedy avatar
Alison Kennedy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have had conversations where people are angry with me because I didn't discuss with them first that I was getting rid of my cell phone.

lisayamaguchi-townsend avatar
Lisa Yamaguchi-Townsend
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Actually I don't always carry my phone on me for those reasons. With all the scary stuff going on in the world these days, I carry it in order for my family to be able to track me in case I go missing. I live somewhere where barely anything happens, but that's what they all say until someone goes missing.

lightningbloom avatar
Lightning Bloom
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Needing to immediately answer phonecalls is preposterous. I wish it were normal to text and ask ahead of time to call, as is normal via internet messaging/calling.

felicorbongolan avatar
Wistiti
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I will send a text when it's not urgent; otherwise I call the person and leave a message if necessary. I treat my incoming the same way.

janetch avatar
Janet C
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I do keep my phone with me when I'm off alone, in case of emergency. But I never walk and stare at my phone at the same time. It's available in case I truly need it.

cathy_hurd avatar
Cathy Hurd
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Half the time I don't know where my phone is, the other half it's dead. (My husband's a phonoholic)

becca75 avatar
Becca Hauck
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a (what I thought was a close friend) drop me because I refused to text her every few minutes while awake. It was insane. And I just can't.

ajahogan avatar
Aja Hogan
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People always tell me I'm rude for sending people to vm. Um no I don't want to be available all the time. It's called boundaries.

topazdores avatar
PazDores
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have a type of friend to feel sorry for not texting back right away but that's because their mom taught them that the only reason they're on this Earth is to be the mom's and rest of the family:s toy or punching bag.

elainedulecki avatar
Elaine
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Understand this as I have work that requires me to be on during business hours and something before and after. It gets stressful

jkxmoniza avatar
Moniza Diampuan
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I rarely touch my phone especially on school days because i don't feel like it. My mother checks on me by messaging my roommates how I was doing because 9 out of 10, i wouldn't reply right away.

pitbullmomma2005 avatar
Kimberly Poole
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree so much with this.. I like to have some peace from my phone.

spazical83 avatar
Passivepagan
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh, Facebook groups are notorious for this. Like ok there's funding groups. If you put up a request for donations and you receive any, if you do not update or respond INSTANTLY then you are labeled a scammer and banned from the group. Like are you for real? I'm sorry that I don't have my phone permanently attached to my hand nor does it work without wifi. Jeeze mn. Give someone a chance to respond.

jennyrosbach avatar
JR_4755826
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think people are getting better at this. Setting boundaries, giving space and the like.

bilieghberrie avatar
Biliegh Berrie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The good ol days when you got a busy signal and had to drive to their house.

christineneely avatar
Christine Neely
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My phone is for my convenience not anyone else. I'll pick up the phone if I feel like it.

pemdas927 avatar
pemdas927
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I work different hours. And I have people all the time worried that they are going to wake me or catch me at the wrong time. I'm "old". I have an alarm clock outside of my phone that I use all of the time. My phone is in the living room and on mute during my work week. My voicemail works just fine

michaelrodriguez_4 avatar
Ruben M
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is why I quit my 2nd to last job. Great hours, decent pay, new company car every 2 years(for personal use as well). But I had to have my work phone on me at all times. 24/7. I'd get calls at 4am expecting me to take care of an issue. I was always so stressed since I never felt like I had a day of in the 7 years I worked there. For months after I left my stomach would drop every time my phone rang. I've had my phone on silent ever since then. It's been about 6 years.

miguelpayano avatar
Genn1530
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

THIS🙌 I can go days without paying a lot of attention to my phone. I keep it with me because I have kids but I won't even look at it.

teddyomalley avatar
Teddy O'Malley
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've started pretending like it's 1994 and leaving my phone at home when I go out to eat or whatever some days. I love that nobody can bother me. Whatever it is can wait.

oljas avatar
Olja S
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to repeatedly tell my mum to at least switch off sound and maybe even mobile internet during the night. It would also teach people that she is not at their disposal at all hours. I also had friends who complained that someone is waking them up with texts or calls and when I suggested the mentioned above method they were so surprised as it never came to their minds.

taylorwright avatar
Celesta
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The only exceptions are directly regarding 1) my kid 2) my mother. Anything else can wait.

kojakun99 avatar
DensaiFire
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Personally it's about a 50/50 chance whether I respond now or a couple hours later

citymorgue avatar
Monika Jabłońska
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You nailed it. I do the same when I need privacy. I can always text or call back later.

farfort avatar
Rebe
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The whole point of a text is you can rrspond at your convenience. If it's urgent call if it's really urgent go/send someone to look for the person.

lauramandadocacho avatar
Laura Mandado Cacho
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I carry my phone with me in case of emergencies, but can ignore text messages for hours, if it's truly an emergency they will call

joallisonreed avatar
Jo Reed
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't own a phone... also I close my laptop down at 4pm every day.

helentart1980 avatar
Gemma jones
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have a mobile but it’s rarely on. I wouldn’t have one but my husband is a worry wart and thinks I’m constantly in danger and said keep your phone just in case.

tricia1111 avatar
Artemis302
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I thought the whole point of a text was that you'd get to it at your convenience?🤨

mrstevencall avatar
Steven John
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No, I have recently had enough. All that c**p gets turned off a 8pm, back on at 7am. So freaking liberating!!!

socalledracing avatar
socalledracing
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why leaving phone behind? What about just ignore everyone, much easier.

itsjustk10 avatar
Kristin Makowsky
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Remember when , if the phone rang , at dinner time you were forbidden to answer it . Damn near drive me nutz

curriejg avatar
James G. Currie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel no guilt leaving my (only) phone at home. It's a landline. lol

janesmith_7 avatar
Jane Smith
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

On the opposite end of that, my dad (who isn't glued to his phone) turned his off one night and missed several calls and texts saying his brother had passed. Won't turn it off now, but calls/texts back when he can

tark1911 avatar
Robert Tarkington
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The "do not disturb" feature on my phone is THE BEST THING EVER! If you are on my exceptions list, you've earned an answer/reply.

bunnielyse9 avatar
Bunnie Elyse
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I bring my phone for safety, but never answer calls or texts when it's "me" time

cammywilsonaz avatar
CammyCat
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes! I hate going to a group function only to have everyone on their phones vs socializing with other people IN THE SAME ROOM!

lilowatkins-spam avatar
Isaac
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wouldn't ever be without my phone by choice (for safety purposes) but yeah

edurnity22 avatar
Edurne
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Definitely agree!! I always switch my phone off when I go to bed (unless someone in my family is at a sleepover, on holiday etc., but that doesn't happen often at all), and I put it on airplane mode for a couple of hours every day (again, I do it when we are all at home)

tissa avatar
Tissa
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well I keep my phone on me I'm not glued to it 24/7 but if I go for a walk or somewhere I want to make sure I have it on me for emergencies

dawnmariejudd avatar
Nadia Judd
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

100% this one. My stepmother calls me all hours of the day; when I'm working, when I'm sleeping, when I'm trying to relax on my only day off. If I don't answer she throws a huge fit. And at the same time she bitches constantly about people who have their phones on them all the times me. Can't have it both ways Karen.

alanavoeks avatar
Alana Voeks
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is my mother. Thank christ I wasn't born in the 70s or I would have never have any freedom instead of the slim bit I get now. What would these people have done before cell phones? Thought you died each time they called your home and you didn't respond within 30 seconds? Jeez.

carol-a-stephen1 avatar
Carol Stephen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thumbs up on this one! I shake my head watching people (even in my own family) who are glued to their phone. I refuse to have a phone in the bathroom(!) and I do not feel guilty if I don't turn my cell on every day.

allison-mardika avatar
Azolane
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh my god, my husband threw a fit one day because I was working downstairs and 15 minutes later I hadn't answered the text he sent from upstairs.... asking for tea. He didn't like my answer, and the problem with me is, the more you try to coerce me into doing something, the more I am going to do the exact opposite.

amylee3531 avatar
Amy Stone-Chandler
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I VERY often don't reply for 2-3 days to my own mother. Certainly longer to others. I'm not a cell person. Heck, I'm not a people person

lythahawkeye avatar
Lytha Hawkeye
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My family and friends know that unless I am using my phone, chances are it's been "put down" aka ignored. If it's an emergency, or they want to get a hold of me asap, they call my hubby if I don't answer lol

txjac avatar
Tx jac
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

lol at throwing in your five cents ...with inflation its up from the normal two cents ...lol

jose_carlo avatar
Jose Carlo
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Unfortunately for me, I am on call 24/7. That is why after 15 years on this job, I had decided to retire.

queenofthecastle82 avatar
Queenie-Poo
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband and I have a deal: if one of us sends a text, answer when you can or even when you get home. If one of us calls, answer (or call back asap); calling means it's urgent, usually involving the kids.

catsrcool66 avatar
Sandra Morison
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I put my on unavailable from 2200 till 0800 and only my 3 closeset friends and sons can contact me during that time

jessica-cicale avatar
ItsJess
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I do this too (from 9:30pm to 6am) and it drives my husband nuts. "What if someone needs you?"...nothing is that urgent. And if it really is, they'll just call him, he's always on his phone.

Load More Replies...
View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

One of the socially acceptable activities mentioned on this list is drinking alcohol. While alcohol has been around for centuries, it’s also the most commonly abused substance. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with having a couple drinks, especially in social settings. Alcohol is linked with many cultures, as sharing a bottle of wine with a loved one or enjoying some beers with your best friends can be great ways to bond. Holidays tend to be filled with booze in many places as well.

ADVERTISEMENT

But regardless of how socially acceptable drinking is, it’s completely fair to question it too. People who have experience with alcoholics in their families or personal lives may decide that drinking will never be for them. Others decide to refrain from drinking for religious or health reasons. Drinking heavily can lead to developing heart, liver, or kidney issues and can even increase an individual's likelihood of developing cancer. It's completely up to individuals whether or not they decide to drink; no one should ever feel pressured to order a drink because its expected by society.

#4

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) give a s**t about celebs. Sometimes they're fun to talk about for like 5 minutes but other than that? Aren't they just people? I don't get it.

CoffeeAndPizzaRolls Report

Add photo comments
POST
billyevans35 avatar
Bill Evs
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yep, definitely this. I just can't fathom why anyone would give a sh*t about what dress a celeb is wearing, who they're currently dating, etc. Whatever part of the brain that finds that stuff interesting I must just be missing.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#5

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Work myself to death.

Edit: I commented this, passed out, and now it blew up. Thank you for the awards.

Also please use your vacation days. Your sick days. Take your dog out. Hang out with the family. Even if you're alone like me - Go do something you like.

Onautopilotsendhelp Report

Add photo comments
POST
krisis avatar
Kris
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My workplace has been under staffed for over a year. I refuse to work extra hours and when im sick Im staying in bed. Whats the point if you burn out and have no energy to do the things you actually like?

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#6

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Talk to toxic family members

cellcube0618 Report

Add photo comments
POST
sarahspencer avatar
Sarah Spencer
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This!!! Being related to someone does not grant them permanent space in your life. If they are not good people, you DON'T owe them your time, your forgiveness or your love.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT

Smoking is another habit that’s considered socially acceptable in some places but more taboo in others. We’re all well aware of cigarettes being carcinogens, and most of us have seen terrifying examples of what smoking can do to the body our entire lives. Yet for some reason, smoking is still incredibly common and accepted in many countries. In Greece, for example, about 38% of the population smokes, including 47% of men. According to cardiologist and tobacco control researcher Konstantinos Farsalinos, “Greeks aren’t highly motivated to quit. There is plenty of education, and we have smoking cessation centers, but they are not popular. There is not a lot of social pressure to quit smoking. Although there are laws prohibiting indoor smoking, those laws are not obeyed. So that reduces the social pressure. So, the smoker tends to forget the reasons why smoking is bad for you. Most Greek smokers only quit when they develop disease.” While the culture around smoking is different everywhere, it’s definitely worth questioning if it’s accepted wherever you live.

#7

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Push for the removal of homeless. They need help, not further persecution.

anon Report

Add photo comments
POST
nuguanugua avatar
Jiminy
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Honestly, it depends. We have organized beggar clans, which get driven into the country in spring and back home in autumn. They refuse any and all help, they even refuse to use the toilets specifically installed for them only they have a key for, and instead s**t on sidewalks and p**s in parks and bike parking spaces instead. I get persecution.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#8

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Wear makeup. If I can deal with my face, so can everyone else

JoyfulDeee Report

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
#9

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Sacrifice a down payment on a house for a wedding.

BlackLotus8888 Report

Add photo comments
POST
cynthiaweiner avatar
C W
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nobody understood why I wouldn’t have a big wedding. Between the costs and my MIL thinking it was her special day I talked my husband into a destination wedding with just us. When we got back my MIL had a fancy cocktail party. That was enough.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

Similarly to smoking, people around the world have very different views on recreational drugs as well. Marijuana is particularly controversial, as it has been legalized for recreational use in 6 countries, 19 states in the US, and parts of Australia. In places where it is legal, like the state of Oregon for example, it usually is considered socially acceptable. Sure, it’s not for everyone, but it’s legal and harmless, so people tend to mind their own business. However, in other places where it is heavily enforced, like the Philippines where it is considered a "dangerous drug", people are a lot less likely to openly discuss their marijuana use. How socially acceptable recreational drugs are depends greatly on individual cultures, but even in places where marijuana is common, there will always be those who simply have no interest in getting high.

#10

My dad just scolded me because I was unwilling to put in 60+ hrs/week at a new salaried job by saying 'I've worked 70/hr since I was out of college!'
Yeah dad, that's probably why you missed every important life event and smoke a juul at age 57

AscendingAgain Report

#11

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) I don’t drink or do illicit drugs. Alcohol messes with my medication, and pot gives me anxiety. I am a sober person and people often give me s**t about it and call me boring.

TheShining02 Report

Add photo comments
POST
mrkette avatar
Mary Rose Kent
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’m sorry to break this to you, but you’re hanging out with the wrong people. Unless everyone is drunk, being with drunk people is really boring!

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
ADVERTISEMENT
#12

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Hang out in a social setting where the music is so gawdam loud that you have to scream at the person next to you to communicate.

Capnreid Report

Add photo comments
POST
nuguanugua avatar
Jiminy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I refuse to go to bars or restaurants where the music is too loud to talk to each other without screaming. I just don't get the point.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

Another thing mentioned on this list that some people swear they’ll never experience is dating apps. Online dating originally began in 1995 when Match.com launched, but as our culture has become increasingly obsessed with the internet since then, finding love online has only become more and more common. In 2020, the Pew Research Center found that 30% of Americans had ever used a dating site or app, including 48% of people between the ages of 18-29. These numbers have likely only gone up since the onset of the pandemic, though, and online dating is even more common among members of the LGBT+ community. Pew found that 55% of LGBT respondents had experience on a dating site or app, with 21% of them saying they had even been in a serious relationship with someone they met online. 

#13

Two months ago, my dad died. He had cancer and had had it for like a year.

I told my work over and over again that he was really sick. I work in an office and am on a computer all day. I have a company-supplied laptop. I have the ability to work from home, but I was not allowed to do so because I was an hourly employee.

I told them that his condition was worsening. I live five hours from my parents. They refused to accommodate me, even when I offered to work every day from my parents house, just so I could be with him.

They said 'well maybe when the situation gets more dire.'

I tried to apply for FMLA (I think that’s the right acronym) and I wasn’t eligible because I was hourly and hadn’t been there for a year yet, despite the circumstances. A week before he died I told my boss that it was almost time and I might have to take off work.

They were not concerned and told me as long as I got my work done and didn’t miss deadlines. I took the day he died off work—I just had a bad feeling, and was packing to go see him when he passed.
I told my work and they don’t have bereavement leave. So I offered to work remotely during this period and again they refused. Again, I have a 'good job' working at a huge corporation, in an office; my job requires a degree.

I was forced to use all of my sick time and some of my PTO so I could attend his funeral and help my mother with arrangements.

And I'm stuck here because I can't afford to quit without something else lined up. I've been looking. They obviously don't see us as humans.

You don’t owe your company anything. I would give anything to go back and time and quit, just to spend the last few weeks with my dad.
Whatever company you work for doesn’t care about you, only about how much you make them. Don’t worry about screwing them over or anything because at the end of the day, you could die and they would consider it a small inconvenience.

fathleen Report

Add photo comments
POST
cinzabeary avatar
LagoonaBlueColleen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This. Companies think they're the most important s**t on the planet over humans. Idc if it's business or what. They're run by humans who've forgotten where they came from and the meaning of what's important. We're not slaves to corporations. We're brainwashed into believing we need them.

View more commentsArrow down menu
#14

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Have kids.


I'm a 38 year old woman with lots of experience with kids - I like kids! - but people think that is a reason to birth them.

Queen_beeeeee Report

Add photo comments
POST
mrkette avatar
Mary Rose Kent
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Being able to opt in or opt out of hanging out with munchkins is great! I love being Aunt Mary Rose and not Mommy!

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#15

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Ironing. Life is too short. I don't even own an iron and my clothes are just fine.

Dimmunia Report

Add photo comments
POST
ola-ustka avatar
Jar of Pickles
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I may be weird, but I love ironing. The best part is when you watch the transformation of a shirt, from a wrinkled to a smooth one. I love it!

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

When it comes to apps specifically, they did begin as a way for same-sex couples to meet. Grindr, a location-based app geared towards gay and bisexual men, launched in 2009 and started somewhat of a sexual revolution in the gay community. Since then, dating apps have become the norm for everyone regardless of sexual orientation. Tinder launched in 2012, and now has over 50,000,000 users. But just because dating apps are now socially acceptable doesn’t mean everyone has to use them. In fact, about half of Americans say that online dating has had neither a positive or negative effect on their love lives.  If you prefer to meet people the old fashion way, there’s no reason to feel pressured into using the internet.   

#16

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Don't follow sports

Natural-Compote477 Report

Add photo comments
POST
boredpanda_34 avatar
John Smith
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get really annoyed when people don't understand "I don't care it is boring to me" as an excuse to explain it to me in minute detail, as I just don't understand it. My usual response is to start explaining software development to them. Strangely they aren't interested and don't want to talk about it.. and yet don't get the link.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#17

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Yes. People are flabbergasted when I’m not informed on the latest celebrity news and honestly I just don’t see a reason to keep up with it

Appropriate_Lecture7 Report

#18

Smoking. I can't stand cigarette smell.

Rare_Hovercraft_6673 Report

Add photo comments
POST
nikkisevven avatar
Nikki Sevven
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm a smoker (down from 30/day to 10/day and on my way to quitting completely), and I always ensure I'm well away from everyone when I light up. No one wants to breathe my smoke or even get it on their clothes. It absolutely is a disgusting habit, and I wish my parents hadn't smoked, because I probably would never have started.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

Social media is another thing that has become socially acceptable, but still doesn’t appeal to everyone. Since social media began in the early 2000s, it has dominated the internet. In 2004, MySpace was the first site of its kind to reach over 1 million monthly active users, but today, Facebook has 2.89 billion active users. Facebook has been the most popular social media site globally for over a decade now, but Youtube is quickly catching up, with 2.29 billion active users. Among the other most successful sites are Instagram, which currently has 2 billion active users, and TikTok, which has only been around since 2016 and already has 1 billion active monthly users.

#19

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Walk in the house with shoes.
Why people want to track all the junk from the outside and smear it over the floors , bed, and couch?! No thanks

msb1tters Report

Add photo comments
POST
williamlankes avatar
Legendteller
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Here in Finland that's considered VERY rude and it makes sense to take the shoes off.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#20

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Call my coffee something other than small, medium & large.

arc918 Report

#21

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Bore other people with photos of everyday stuff they see all the time anyway. For example, the meal I am going to eat, the shoes I bought, the place I am at.

Stendhal-Syndrome Report

See Also on Bored Panda

Despite how popular social media sites are, it’s understandable why some people would want to avoid them. One of the biggest reasons people cite for staying off these apps is because they can be a huge waste of time. The average global user spends about 2 hours and 27 minutes on social media per day, with average users in Nigeria and the Philippines spending over 4 hours per day. It’s easy to rack up hours on these sites though, as they are typically designed to be addictive. With features like “likes” and feeds designed to constantly show users new content, these websites are aimed at getting users hooked.    

#22

Do “lives” on social media. Since when did vanity and narcissism become so acceptable?

No one cares about your dining experience or “get ready with me” moments.

GSG_2022 Report

#23

Text while hanging with friends, or out to dinner, or driving, or in a movie theater.

CreateYourself89 Report

Add photo comments
POST
firstnamelastname avatar
Firstname Lastname
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'll text my man to update him on if I plan on being home soon, as a courtesy, but otherwise my phone is out of sight. Texting around others is rude.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#24

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) One Night Stands

Sex doesn't mean anything to me if I can't build a connection first

PeatedPaladin Report

Social media is also notorious for causing users to compare themselves to others, which can negatively impact their self esteem. One study from the University of Pennsylvania even found that reducing social media use to only 30 minutes a day resulted in a reduction in anxiety levels, depression, loneliness, sleep problems and FOMO (fear of missing out). Like everything else, there’s nothing wrong with using social media in moderation. But just because it’s considered “normal” to spend hours a day on these sites does not mean you need to create an account today. If your life is perfectly fine without social media, I’m sure it won’t be any better with it.  

#25

Going in debt $30k-$70k for a vehicle.

So_Gnaar Report

Add photo comments
POST
alixpitcher avatar
Powerful Katrinka
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Which begins to depreciate the minute you drive it out of the lot. I've always bought used cars, and I've never regretted it.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#26

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Shave/wax my pubes. I actually really like having pubic hair. It doesn't bother me or my partner, and I find waxing and/or shaving extremely uncomfortable and not at all worth it.

ladymaenad Report

Add photo comments
POST
ayoung817877 avatar
PC
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

For ladies. when they do it's like people want us to be little girls and that's. creepy [I'm not explaining this well.].

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#27

Buy fast fashion (or pretty much any fashion whose supply chain is questionable). I used to. Then I found out not only how and where those clothes begin their lives, but also how and where those clothes end their lives.

It was so horrific, I decided I was done. I now buy secondhand, or I save and buy pieces from independent tailors from sites like Etsy. And I research the tailor too.

I also took some of the money I saved from clothes shopping and got a sewing machine. I am learning to sew and make my own summer dresses (I'm not good enough yet to take on complex clothing, but I'm learning)

StGir1 Report

Add photo comments
POST
mrkette avatar
Mary Rose Kent
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My grandmother made most of my clothes for me when I was a child, and she had an old treadle machine that she eventually replaced with something more in keeping with the times. After my poor grandfather died after living on without my grandmother for 11 years, my aunt had all of the grandchildren—who were all adults—had each of us walk through my grandparents’ home of 60+ year (a home my grandfather built) and put a Post-It with our name on anything we wanted to take home with us. I chose a small number of things, all of which were made by one or the other of my grandparents, and I took home everything I asked for.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu

I think this list has taught us that just because something is considered "normal" does not mean we have to go along with it. We all have the right to make our own choices, and what's socially acceptable totally depends on where we end up living. Enjoy the rest of this list, and remember to upvote the answers you most agree with. Then let us know in the comments if you think of any other "normal" activities you would never do that didn't make it onto this list.

#28

My wife and I had a very small wedding on a beach with only our parents there. Then, we drove to a mountain and hiked to the top with our photographer for our first dance.
It was incredible and people keep telling us they wish they could’ve done something that simple but social pressures made them spend more.
Now, we’ve just had to spend more than the entire cost of our wedding just to buy the plane tickets to attend my sister’s big wedding.

Giygas Report

Add photo comments
POST
thereader19 avatar
TheReader19
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Treat it as a nice holiday, but seriously; I wouldn't go into debt to go to my own wedding much less anyone else. If I couldn't afford it I wouldn't go sister or no sister

View more commentsArrow down menu
#29

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Faking orgasms

Dogplantmom97 Report

Add photo comments
POST
juli_june avatar
June
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Never with someone you want to have sex again with. But sometimes it can help to shorten an awkward hookup 🤷‍♀️

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#30

Have tons of social media accounts where I'm constantly posting pictures of what I'm doing every day. Remember, if it's not photographed and posted online, it didn't happen.

I_Love_Small_Breasts Report

#31

Didn’t see it here so figured I’d share. Live in a city. I was born in a large city, lived there until I was 11. Then moved to the woods. I’ve lived in the woods since then and although I have visited cities since, I could never live there. Too many people, too much noise and I just don’t feel comfortable. I feel more comfortable taking walks at night in the woods than I would in a city.

BuffaloInCahoots Report

Add photo comments
POST
mrkette avatar
Mary Rose Kent
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I lived in San Francisco for most of my adult life (40 of my now 66 years), and my last apartment there was the best one I’d ever had, and I wanted to spend the rest of my life there. Alas, once I was no longer working, I had to move, and after a year (minus two days) of living with my favorite brother and his wife on their farm in rural Oregon, I ended up with a job in a small town on the Mendocino coast of Northern California. I have come to love small-town life in a way I would never have anticipated. I just wish I weren’t so far from my dearest friends, who all live in the Bay Area.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
See Also on Bored Panda
#32

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Have never and will never use a dating app.

nicoleduret Report

Add photo comments
POST
meghang220 avatar
Slytherin_4_LYF
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sometimes that is the only way people can get to know new people. Haven't used one in a while, but i def would again if i needed to.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#34

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) This might be oddly specific, it's wearing flip flops.

I grew up in a tourist beach town, I have never owned a pair of flip flops in my life. I find them wildly uncomfortable and people in my hometown look at me like a crazy person when I tell them I don't own a pair.

Killarogue Report

#35

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Wearing a bra, I completely hate the feeling

Keilaivy Report

#36

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) brushing before breakfast:

doing that is basically wiping before you s**t and i refuse to do that

BeegBeegGae Report

#37

Buy copious amounts of dishes, Why the f**k do you need 27 plates for the two people in your household. Im looking at you mom.

Pine-Space Report

Add photo comments
POST
thandeit avatar
Random Panda
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Do you never have guests over? I also have a dumber reason for it - so I can use my dishwasher. I wouldn't run it for just two or three plates (it's wasting water and energy) and I hate washing dishes, so I have enough to use until the dishwasher is full.

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#38

The Hustle Culture. Although I like the idea of bettering your life but always thinking of doing something or the other will leave you with burnout. Taking a break regularly is nessecary

Edit: It's good if you are in a bad place. But it's not always about working your a*s off. What's important is taking a break and keep it from becoming toxic

funny_acolyte Report

Add photo comments
POST
karen-lancaster000 avatar
Yeah, you heard
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What does this even mean? To me, hustling means coercing or tricking people into doing something or buying something. I don't think that's generally accepted though is it?

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#39

“What Is Something Considered To Be ‘Normal’ By Society That You Refuse To Do?” (40 Answers) Drink alcohol.

AzuSteve Report

Add photo comments
POST
angelakrake avatar
Angi
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't mind the occasional social drink as long as I can't taste or feel the alcohol lol

View More Replies...
View more commentsArrow down menu
#40

Play wordle

TroyTC Report

Note: this post originally had 57 images. It’s been shortened to the top 40 images based on user votes.