According to Doree Shafrir, “if anticipated line-waiting discomfort (outdoor temperature, bathrooms, will I have to stay overnight, etc.) (A) x expected time in line (T), squared < my hourly earnings (E) x desire for the object or experience (D) x anticipated fun in line (F), then it seems worth it.”
She recounted her previous experience as she waited in line at the Franklin Barbeque in Austin, Texas (a barbeque house which operates on a no-reservation policy for customers), as an application of her above formula, as well as during a Twilight premiere and the infamous queues when a new Apple device is to be released. The article was written in light of the public availability of the new iPad, as people started lining up in front of the Apple Store in New York since Monday to purchase the much-awaited gadget.
The Psychology Behind Waiting in Line
Waiting in line is a universal experience that can evoke a range of emotions from excitement to frustration. The psychology behind it is fascinating and complex. People often weigh the potential rewards against the discomfort and time spent. Doree Shafrir’s formula attempts to quantify this balance. For instance, the anticipated discomfort (A) can vary greatly depending on factors such as weather conditions, availability of amenities like bathrooms, and whether an overnight stay is required. These elements can significantly impact one’s decision to join a queue.
The expected time in line (T) is another crucial factor. The longer the wait, the more likely people are to reconsider their decision. However, this is where the other side of the equation comes into play. If the hourly earnings (E) are high enough, the opportunity cost of waiting decreases. Additionally, the desire for the object or experience (D) can sometimes override the discomfort and time factors. For example, die-hard fans of a movie franchise or tech enthusiasts might be willing to endure long waits for a premiere or a new gadget release.
Real-Life Applications of the Formula
Doree Shafrir’s formula isn’t just theoretical; it has practical applications. Take her experience at Franklin Barbeque in Austin, Texas. This popular barbeque joint is known for its long lines, and it operates on a no-reservation policy. Shafrir applied her formula to decide whether the wait was worth it. The anticipated discomfort (A) included the hot Texas weather and the lack of seating. However, the expected time in line (T) was balanced by her high desire for the barbeque (D) and the anticipated fun (F) of chatting with fellow food enthusiasts. Her hourly earnings (E) also played a role in making the wait seem worthwhile.
Another example is the Twilight movie premiere. Fans often camp out overnight to secure the best seats. The anticipated discomfort (A) of sleeping on the sidewalk and the long wait (T) are significant. However, the desire (D) to be among the first to see the movie and the fun (F) of sharing the experience with other fans can make the wait seem worth it.
The release of a new Apple device is another scenario where Shafrir’s formula comes into play. People start lining up days in advance to be among the first to own the latest gadget. The anticipated discomfort (A) includes the cold weather and the lack of sleep. The expected time in line (T) can be extremely long. However, the high desire (D) for the new device and the fun (F) of being part of a tech community can outweigh the negatives. For many, the hourly earnings (E) are also a factor, as they can afford to take time off work to wait in line.
In conclusion, waiting in line can be worth it if the anticipated discomfort and time are outweighed by the desire for the object or experience, the fun of the wait, and one’s hourly earnings. Doree Shafrir’s formula provides a useful framework for making this decision, and her real-life examples illustrate its practical applications.
via BuzzFeed
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