My school has a serious lunch table problem. The tables are very strict about sitting with only their best friends, except that they always want my BFF at their table. Everyone is vying for her attention, and I am too. But they want her at their table, not me! So then I don’t have anywhere to sit, and she’s making new friends and has less time for me. How do I break this lunchroom segregation?
Ugh, middle/high school can be tough, especially at lunchtime. Sometimes people get so set in their comfort zones, they’re unwilling to venture out. But you can break the mold. There is no rule saying you can only sit with your friends during lunch. The best way to set a trend is to lead by example.
Speak up
Before you start a lunchtime revolution, schedule a time to talk to your BFF about this sitch. You could tell her, “I understand you’re very popular right now, but I can’t help but to feel left out and I don’t want this to hurt our friendship.” Hopefully she’ll understand where you’re coming from and let her other friends know she wants you to sit with them, too. If they’re not willing or your friend doesn’t stick up for you, it may be time to consider other options.
Work it out
If your bestie seems to be moving on without you, you can do the same thing, too. Perhaps you two can work out a lunchtime sched where you sit together some days and with new friends on other days. And don’t forget, there’s always after-school time, too. But while you’re in school, you could join clubs or sports to make new friends you can sit with during lunch.
Switch it up
Sitting with your BFF is definitely one of the highlights of any school day. Maybe you and your friend can bring your different crews together to create one massive and fun lunch table. By eating lunch with different people, you’ll expose yourself to new ideas and maybe you’ll even find some new besties. You never know until you try. Good luck, girl!
Lots of love,
L’Oreal
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