Occasionally when I’m out drinking with friends there is a stranger who will walk up and want to tell you his life story. I’m always more than 100% willing to listen to what they have to say, but it always comes at a cost. I consider it good etiquette that if you are going to tell me your life story and I’m going to have to listen to it, then you are going to be buying me drinks. I’m always willing to listen to what you have to say, but in return you’re going to refill my glass. The same goes for if I’m the one telling stories, then I’m the one buying drinks.
The logic behind this is that one is not as willing to talk as long if their pocket book is getting smaller. That way everybody is more apt to have a turn at telling their tales. This is just food for thought the next time you are out and a stranger comes up and wants to tell you their life story.