Suddenly the elevator jolted and stopped... but we had not even gone up a floor. Getting stuck in an elevator seems like it's just a "Hollywood" scene when in reality it happens to everyday people like you and me. It had never happened to me until this past week when visiting a hotel. Thank gosh I was with friends from school, but imagine being trapped with complete strangers? I'm sure by the end of it, you wouldn't be strangers anymore!
Here are three things I learned while trapped in an elevator:
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1. You're naturally a tad claustrophobic.
I use to never think of myself as being claustrophobic whatsoever. I was used to having kids crawl all over me at work and holding babies. It wasn't until I was crammed in an elevator with 6 others that I learned we're all naturally a tad claustrophobic. We as humans like a natural space between us and others, so when it gets a tad tight we start to get nervous. Taking deep breaths is important.
2. Staying calm is important.
Once you have a quick "freak out sesh" and realize you're really stuck, composing yourself is important. Picking someone to call the front desk, or just pick up the phone and talking is important so you can get out sooner than later. Distracting yourselves with something other than the elephant in the room is good too. We played "headbands" with someone's iPhone and had some giggles out as we described animals. Doing that helped the time fly by.
3. Taking the stairs is more than just healthy.
Obviously living in fear is not healthy but taking the stairs should be your first choice. I know after this incident it will be mine for a little while. Not only you're getting some exercise, you're breathing in fresh air and knowing the "back roads" of your surrounding so if a fire occurred you would know where to go fast.
