I wore a mask the other day to go to Costco for the first time in months. I really wanted to go and brought one of my old masks they handed me at the Doctors office months ago. Wearing a mask was dehumanizing and I felt very ashamed for doing it. I saw a group of 3 people not wearing a mask and I felt more ashamed of myself. Why wasn't I brave enough to not wear the mask?
Today I redeemed myself and regained some of my humanity. My state of Michigan requires a mask under penalty of a misdemeanor and $500 fine. I had to build up my courage but I went grocery shopping and did not wear a mask. I saw only one other person not wearing a mask and 1 person with the mask pulled down completely.
It isn't much but I told myself that if I can't stand up for a small infringement on my rights that I will never stand up for a large infringement.
This is the same tactic I use too and you are completely correct! The confidence really does make it easy to shop. Even in crazy Cali, I've been able to shop and do most shopping this whole time.
Did wear the mask about 3 times before Anxiety went nuts, turns out, not getting enough oxygen can really cause some physical and mental shit.
But people are usually super relaxed as long as you are confident, respectful and willing to walk away.