shopping_smallI’ve never been able to shop with other people. Especially when someone is waiting for me. Just the idea of it sounds awful.

There have been times when my husband and I are at the mall, and I need to buy something, and he’s in a generous mood and tells me to “take my time.” Then I’ll get excited and start browsing the racks, but within a couple minutes, I can’t help but feel a weight on me… the weight of someone who is waiting for me.

Even though he told me it was ok, and to take my time, I just feel bad making someone wait. Usually, I look around for just a couple minutes, and then say, “screw it.” and leave the store. I can’t do it.

Then, I’ll meet back up with my husband and I grouch, “I can’t shop when you are waiting for me!”

He says, “But I told you to take your time! You can’t blame this on me!”

Me: “I know. I can’t help it. I just can’t shop when someone is waiting for me. It’s not your fault.”

How is this an HSP thing? HSPs take longer than most to make decisions. We weigh every possible piece of information. So making a purchase can take me a long time because I have to think about everything. And having even the smallest feeling of having to rush the decision just wrecks it all for me. I can’t do it if I feel one bit rushed.

Anyone else feel like they can’t shop when people are waiting for you?

photo credit: Chris JL via photopin cc