invisible to others

At the workplace I'm often going to and fro for water, bathroom relief, and food among other things. It is rare that I don't pass a handful of people on the way. Two years ago when I relocated to a new office area I made the conscious decision not to say hello to anyone. I don't discriminate and just say hello to pretty women or friendly men. I ignore any stranger I come upon. I had been about a week in this location and did some nodding and some quick pleasantries and I found the experience to be frustrating and tiresome. There were just too many people, even if they were friendly. Besides, the majority have no interest in acknowledging others. Some read their phones, others stare straight ahead, and some do this glance and either make a pathetic attempt at a smile or do nothing. They may be lost in thought or just disregarding you. This is what I call "invisible to others". We all do it whether we realize it or not. If someone is poorly dressed, walks without confidence, or is unattractive for various reasons (short, fat, bald are three that come to mind quickly) they are usually roundly ignored by most people, even people like themselves. These split second decisions that we make all day long are necessary for us to prevent information overload. We only leave our sensory doors open a crack for people that we know and like and attractive members of the opposite sex. My recommendation is to follow your heart if you are sensitive enough to even debate 'to nod or not to nod'. The photo gives an example of two people in greeting limbo. They're quickly deciding whether the other is worth looking at.