Why US people is always trying to invite me to have lunch with them?

Question

I'm tired that every time I'm going to take my lunch "alone" there is always some body that tries to go with me, Arghhhhh. Can't they eat alone? Who likes to eat when some other person is talking and talking. After all when they talk and talk they are spitting in some degree over your food.
Oh, by the way you can't tell them that you don't want their company or they will attack you in a mean way. What to do

Answer 1

It's just the difference in our culture. The U.S. people are just trying to be friendly. When you are over here, it's important to play the game of having lunch with your co-workers. If you don't they will think you're rude or stand offish. I hate to say it, but even when you're on break at work, even though technically you can spend it anyway you want, if you isolate yourself, you're asking for problems.

How about a couple of times a week, just grin and bear it and have lunch. I think this would serve you well in the long run.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do....

Answer 2

Ir's not just US but many people around the world feel that if someone is eating alone there must be some [problem. I have found that just explaining to those who aggressively or overly want to join me or invite me to lunch, that to me lunch is not only a time to eat but also a time to reflect and relax and it is more comfortable and positive in my personal development to do so alone - I do make concessions as lunch is a very social and proven team building tool to eat with my friends, colleagues, etc on planned day (normally once or twice a month) -this removes their fears or concerns and makes the time more special - you may want to try this technique

Answer 3

Well you don't want to sound anti social but you can be polite and tell them that you're heading to a short buisness lunch meeting and go someplace that people you work with don't frequent and enjoy your lunch in private. There are ways to get out of having to tell someone you prefer to dine alone. Some people are just looking to connect with someone.

Answer 4

I believe the majority of people hate to eat alone. You can almost see the uneasiness expressed in a person eating alone. Humans are social creatures.
I agree about people spitting over my food when I eat with them. I bugs me a bit.

Answer 5

Yes, you can tell them that you don't want their company.
But you have to tell them in a way that won't offend them.
I really would like to be alone right now I just have a lot
of things on my mind and need to clear my head, I hope
you don't mind. And then maybe suggest you get
together for lunch some other time.

Answer 6

US people are friendly that way. if you are not interested in friends or accquaintances you should politely let them know. venting here is ok but won't help you solve this particular problem. is it because they are US people that you don't want their company or because you just prefer to be alone period? either way you should tell them you like your lunch alone. no explaination required. assuming they will attack you is really unfair and kinda racist. sounds like they are just trying to be your friend.

Answer 7

Say, "I appreciate the offer, but I like to use my lunch hour to take time for myself and meditate on the day. We should go out for drinks after work one evening."

Answer 8

Just don't tell anyone your going to lunch, and when they do try to tag along than just say "Sorry but I'm meeting someone for lunch".

Answer 9

How about, "Thanks, but, today I really have to concentrate on.............whatever", I think I can best do that alone. But, THANKS!"
Asking someone to eat with you is considered high praise from that person. Most Americans really enjoy chatting while eating, and find eating alone, often, embarrassing or just lonely.

Answer 10

Try to find a nice way to tell them. If this doesn't work, bring a book and ignore them until they go away.