How To Deflect Unwanted Attention At Starbucks

Before, I used to go to Starbucks at lunchtime and paint.

I really didn't mind people coming up to me, complimenting my painting. These were respectable people I didn't mind talking to at all.

But now due to personal reasons, I have to study during lunchtime (tough job situation, added housework at home)

Now it seems when I am studying, all the weirdos and creeps come up to me.

One person says I look beautiful from behind. Honestly, I have my hair tied, wearing long sweater, and long maxi skirt. I'm not dressing for attention, but professionally for my job.

I tell them I am at my lunch hour, and I am busy studying, as this is the only time I have, and that I cannot talk to them.

Still they do not go away and they want to know my name, and whether they will see me again

Then I said it is up to Jesus to decide whether they will see me again (I mean, this guy was a weirdo, creepy, but I figure if I invoke Jesus, then person may go away).

When I left the person gave me envelope with his name. I guess he was soliciting money for some charity in his native country (but at Starbucks? and disturbing people who don't want to be disturbed?)

I took the envelope and when I was outside, I tore it and threw it away.

How to politely tell weirdos to go away?

This happened once before a year ago while I was studying at Starbucks. Some old, fat, creepy guy who bought food from outside of Starbucks saying he is an attorney, he is an attorney. Perhaps to intimidate me so I don't call police on him for bothering me?

Freaks!!!!

And if I get angry and scream and say "go away", the weirdo may get angry and do something, and no one would come to my aid.

And if I call police, then it creates unnecessary scene, and police may think there is something wrong with me because I could not handle weirdo. Plus it wastes what little time I already have.

This has been bugging me past few days.

Now I am scared to go to Starbucks because that weirdo may be there, looking for me!


I really like Starbucks coffee. If I could find quiet place to study and drink Starbucks during hour break, I would!

 

Yeah, I was thinking of headphones ......

Will look for nearby library or bookstore. Wow, bookstore!!!! I love books!!!!!!

 

I do love Starbucks and I would miss not going there.

Next time someone comes up, I will politely tell them I am having private time, and please don't disturb.

I reallllllly do love Starbucks. The ambiance, the freshness, and the coffee is so lovely!!!