Colleague Upset After Woman Shifts Seats Due To Cigarette Smoke Aversion

"I said I’m just sensitive to the smell of cigarette smoke"

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• November 21, 2023

In our daily lives, we often find ourselves in situations where the actions or habits of others inadvertently affect our comfort. Sensitivities to certain smells, like cigarette smoke, can turn an ordinary setting into a challenging one.

It's a common issue that many face, balancing personal comfort with the social intricacies of not offending those around us. In a recent Reddit story, a similar scenario unfolded.

OP found herself seated next to a coworker who smelled strongly of cigarettes during a meeting. This wasn’t just a minor inconvenience; the OP is particularly sensitive to this smell, to the point of feeling nauseous.

As the meeting was about to start, and with several people around, the OP decided to move one seat down. It was a subtle, yet necessary move for her comfort.

However, things took a slightly awkward turn. The coworker, perhaps feeling a bit self-conscious, jokingly commented on having showered that morning.

The OP, valuing honesty, responded by mentioning her sensitivity to cigarette smoke and the nausea it causes. This honesty, intended to clarify and not to offend, unfortunately, made the coworker visibly angry. OP was caught between the need to address her physical discomfort and the social etiquette of not wanting to embarrass or upset her coworker.

During a meeting, OP's coworker's strong cigarette smell made OP feel nauseous, so she moved seats.

OP's colleague seemed visibly angry, and OP felt guilty for possibly embarrassing her.

Smokers often don't notice how bad they smell to non-smokers

It's not OP's fault that her colleague doesn't realize how much she reeks of it.

Smokers should be aware of this discomfort as a consequence of their choice to smoke.

OP is not in wrong here

OP did nothing wrong in expressing her feelings.

Smokers quickly become desensitized to the smell of smoke, but non-smokers can still detect it strongly.

If OP's colleague wants to avoid grossing people out, she should consider quitting her habit

Cigarette smells, can be unpleasant and cause discomfort for those with sensitivities.

Cigarette smell is pervasive and unpleasant.

Smokers have a noticeable odor, and it's important to remind them of it.

Smokers have a noticeable odor, and it's important to remind them of it.

Smokers have a strong odor, and they're aware of it but continue to subject others to it.

It's okay to not tolerate the smell of cigarettes around you, even if it hurts a smoker's feelings.

OP could have handled it more professionally.

OP's co-worker who smokes could find a way to mitigate the smell problem, including using breath mints and handwashing or quitting smoking.

OP had a right to feel uncomfortable due to the cigarette smoke smell. Yet, it would have been better if she had approached the situation with more privacy and sensitivity.

When facing such challenges, remember that respectful and private conversations can often lead to better outcomes without causing unnecessary discomfort for anyone involved. It's all about finding that balance between looking out for yourself and being considerate of others.

Damjan