Everything we do shows the world a little piece of ourselves. Especially when that particular thing involves other people. Whether we chose to make other people's lives a bit easier or do as we please reveals more about ourselves than you'd think.
That's why proper subway behavior can be such an infuriating thing.
It's not that hard to step out of the way or give up your seat or just cooperate with the crowd. Yes, you'll probably never see these people again, but don't be a dick about it.
Not sure how your style stacks up? Find it below and you'll see what's up.
Sitting in the middle seats
You like the play it safe, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. You like to go with the flow and not make a fuss. I mean, what’s the use of getting in people’s way, right?
Just take a seat and make the trip as easy as possibly. Sure, you might have a hard time exiting the train if it's packed, but at least you moved out of people’s way when you entered.
Standing up against doors
You like to stay out of the way. Once you enter the train, you step to the side and let everyone find a place to stand.
It might be secret ploy to exit first, but you let someone else sit and you do your best to not contribute to the cramped-ness that is rush hour. In the end, you’re a little smarter than everyone else. You’re not inconvenient and you’re efficient. Win win.
Standing near the doors
If you just take a step or two into the train, you kind of contribute to the problem of crowded commutes.
It’s not the worst way to ride the train, but it’s somewhat selfish. You’d rather find your spot sooner and let everyone else worry about their space around you. Of course, it doesn’t automatically make you rude. You could also just be oblivious, which also isn’t good in this town. Wake up!
Leaning against the pole
Just… why? That cold, round pole surely doesn’t make for a comfortable backrest and you’re probably going to make someone fall over without anything to hold onto.
Newsflash: The subway isn’t a place to lounge out and take a load off. The pole isn’t there for your comfort. It’s for everyone’s balance. Not only are you rude, but you’re also kind of dumb.
Standing in the walkway
You’re the best kind of subway rider! You know how to keep the crowd moving, get out of the way, and let people sit who deserve to sit.
Many people just stand near the doors, packing up the entrance and exit, but you? You get it! The MTA and all squished subway riders thank you for your consideration and you instantly deserve a raise in whatever it is you do.
Holding a pole for the whole trip
Do what you gotta do, but is this really necessary? I mean, it doesn’t bother anyone and it’s a little cute that you’re so worried you’re going to fall, but just relax. It’s understandable.
Sometimes, the trains start and stop pretty suddenly or you just grab the pole out of habit. Just know that you look pretty touristy. You strictly abide by crosswalk signs, too, don’t you?
,Standing against the emergency exit door
You’re pretty laid back and easy to please, as well. There aren’t many people who like going back there, but it’s a pretty out of the way spot and for that, we thank you. But you’re probably like, “Meh, it’s whatever. No big deal.”
God, you’re modest. Perhaps a bit of a pushover, but that’s fine.
You know it’s not always about what you want because sometimes it’s about the greater good.
Sitting in the end seats
Ah, now that’s the good life. Not only do these seats cut the amount of randoms around you in half, but you also get an armrest with it. But, they’re also hard to grab.
So, if you’ve managed to score one for your trip, you’re either very patient by waiting your turn or you’re an opportunist who grabs things as soon as they’re available. It all depends on the execution, but there are still worse things if you’re the latter.
Standing without holding anything
Watch out! We got a badass over here! We get it when the train is packed and you’re stuck, but it looks a little douchy with your legs spread to balance yourself out.
Yes, it’s nice to test your subway legs every once in a while and try to not stumble around, but don’t turn into that guy. What’s next? Telling everyone how your window plants are reducing your carbon footprint?
Sitting in the handicap seats
You’re a loner, aren’t you? You don’t like to be noticed, but you know what? You’re a wonderful human being. You deserve to be in the middle of it all instead of pushed to the side or backed into the corner.
It's completely understandable, though. The pushy, impatient subway riders can be pretty intimidating and you'll do whatever it takes to not get in anyone's way. Just remember: you are beautiful.
Manspreading
You are the scum of the earth. Poets and novelists will dedicate literature to the hate you conjure up or worse. Instagrammers will shame you all over the Internet!
But you don’t care, right? All you’re worried about is giving your boys downstairs a little more breathing room and if the people around you don’t willingly give up their personal space for your genitals, then that’s just plain rude.
Taking up more than one seat
We… we’re not even going to go there.
If you enjoyed this article, check out the 25 Types of People You’ll Encounter While Riding the NYC Subway!