Ah, tipping. Once a simple gesture of appreciation, it has now morphed into a complex social contract that feels more like obligatory bribery and extortion. Remember the good old days when tipping was reserved for exceptional service at a fancy restaurant? Now, it seems like everyone with a pulse and a point-of-sale system is demanding a tip. Let’s dive into this modern tipping conundrum and see how we got here.
First off, let’s talk about the sheer audacity of some of these tipping prompts. You order a coffee, and before you even take your first sip, you’re hit with a screen asking if you’d like to tip 15%, 20%, or 25%. Wait, what? I just wanted a latte, not a side of guilt. It’s like being held hostage by a digital barista who won’t let you complete your transaction until you cough up some extra cash. And don’t even get me started on those “suggested tip” amounts that make you question your entire existence.
The pandemic certainly didn’t help matters. With the rise of contactless payments and delivery apps, tipping has infiltrated every corner of our lives. Suddenly, we’re tipping for takeout, grocery deliveries, and even virtual services. It’s as if the tipping culture went on steroids, and now we’re all just trying to keep up. According to a Pew Research Center study, 7 in 10 Americans say tipping is expected in more places today than it was five years ago. No wonder we’re all feeling a bit extorted.
But let’s not forget the real victims here: the workers. Many service industry employees rely on tips to make a living because their base pay is often shockingly low. In some states, the federal minimum wage for tipped workers is still a measly $2.13 per hour. That’s right, two dollars and thirteen cents. So, while we might grumble about tipping, it’s a lifeline for many. The real issue lies with the employers who exploit this system to avoid paying fair wages.
And then there’s the social pressure. We’ve all been there—standing at the counter, the cashier watching expectantly as you decide whether to tip. It’s like a high-stakes game of poker, but instead of chips, you’re betting your dignity. Do you tip generously and feel like a hero, or do you skimp and risk the judgmental glare of the barista? It’s a lose-lose situation that leaves us all feeling a bit extorted.
So, what’s the solution? Some suggest abolishing tipping altogether and moving to a fair wage system where workers are paid adequately without relying on the whims of customers. Others advocate for clearer tipping guidelines to reduce confusion and guilt. Whatever the answer, one thing is clear: the current system is broken, and it’s time for a change.
In the meantime, let’s all try to navigate this tipping minefield with a bit of humor and empathy. After all, we’re all in this together—trying to figure out when, where, and how much to tip without losing our sanity or our savings. And remember, the next time you’re faced with that dreaded tipping screen, take a deep breath, make your choice, and know that you’re not alone in this modern tipping saga.
I agree totally. I come from the 80's waitressing. I was taught, the people paid for the food or drink. The restaurant paid you to deliver. The service starts after the food is delivered. It started aggravating me when the tip jars came out at the fast food places or pick up lines. I'm disabled and the food delivery charges a service charge and a tip. After delivery they want you to rate and ask do you want an additional tip. Makes me angry. Anyway I love this article so much. I would like to acknowledge it on Jean's Book Corner which comes out on Thursday.