Thoughts on the plane

In my recent travels on a plane, I have began to notice familiar faces. People who, like me, have been on and off the plane in such frequency you get the feeling you already know each other and then you recall you were in the same plane.

More intently I have taken note that most have a seat of choice as if that seat were home. Some choose an aisle seat. Others prefer the window, while others opt or are just left with no choice but to take the middle seat. Each to his own butt- comfort or is it just the derrière they want to keep pat?

As each of us file at the check in to get our seats, did you ever consider that there is a psychological as well as physical reason for your seat choice? In my case taking the aisle seat is convenient for getting in and going out. The con is that when the plane comes to a stop you risk getting hit by a dislodged baggage from hurrying passengers who cannot even wait for the signal to stand from their sits. This usually exasperates me because it reeks of lack of discipline and concern.

Those who prefer the window sit want to have a view or a space to lean aside from the headrest — which at times are more uncomfortable than a side lean — being either too high, too low, or too stiff.

Those who sit in the middle usually are those who don't really care where they sit as long as they get to their destination, may be late bookers, or late arrivals. But mind you some really prefer the middle seat so they get a chance to meet new friends. These may be a rare breed but there is such a breed!

In the plane people often want to be left with their thoughts so they can prepare for the business they have to do when they land, or plan the stops even of an already booked vacation. Some sift  through reactions and possible positions for meeting family, friends or business encounters in their minds wanting to savor whatever memory or strategy.

Unlike in a business set up where seating at the head may connote power and control, or sitting at the edge with another opens communication, and displays a sense of willingness to listen, explain and communicate. Sitting in a plane may leave you with little options.

Still the best sitting area would be  to find the most comfortable lean or sink wherever you are. More importantly it is best to maximize the rest when on the plane and the conversation while waiting for a flight. Some allies are found in the middle of a conversation at the airport.

When business is done, and you are on your way back home doze off and try not to disturb your seat mates wherever you are seated. For you may be done with work but theirs may still begin.