Order Without Looking at the Menu

When you’re at a restaurant, order without looking at the menu.  

For me, it’s a mini-public speaking practice. I am expressing something to a stranger and want to be effective in my communication, and I see this as an opportunity to build this public speaking skill.

I’ve noticed a few things happen for me that I want to share. First, is my short-term recall has improved. By holding my order in my mind, and waiting while other people at the table order first, I am forced to hold that information in my head for a bit of time. I believe this skill translates in many areas, especially if we can learn to remember and recall that information passively. For example, when was the last time you were talking to someone and you had a question, so you stopped listening to them to wait for the right time to ask that question? Maybe you even forgot your question!  Practicing your recall will help you in those moments!

Also, it helps from an interpersonal communication perspective. When we’re not looking at the menu, we can make eye contact with our server, and engage in a more natural exchange. Being comfortable having natural conversations with strangers is an essential skill to have, and this min-challenge will help you get better at it.

So, the next time you’re out to eat and ready to order, do it without looking at the menu. It’s just one small choice that could make a world of difference!