[QUOTE=nanrob;3465393]
Quote:
Originally Posted by Michanne
Got a hobby? Say that and keep it lighthearted. They might think you don't need to work![/QUOT
Why do you believe you owe anyone an explanation, particularly a stranger?
The best response is to say, I don't you well enough to share that you.
Why are you so afraid of possible insulting a person who has already insulted you by asking the question?
I invite you to do "The Work" of Byron Katie. I am not affiliate with her. By doing The Work I have come to a greater understanding of myself and my relationships outside of myself.
Facebook: The work of Byron Katie, or so a search for same.
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Because it is generally in the context of a social situation where people are just trying to get to know you or starting small talk. I don't think they are trying to insult anyone and it is not insulting (in the US anyway). By being immediately standoffish you could be pushing away the chance to get to know somebody really cool or just to engage in a few minutes of good conversation.
Also, it has already been stated here that disability is not a job or career. By saying you are on disability you are telling them more than they need to know...1. You are disabled in some way and 2. The govt is paying for your expenses and by extension, you don't earn a living wage. Then you are telling them it is none of their business even though you just opened the door. I think that is unfair to them. If they push then I push back and no, I am not afraid to do that. Really not necessary if I haven't opened the door.
Finally a hobby could become a business so you are not lying and you are talking about something that interests you...maybe you are even passionate about. You can be gracious and authentic at the same time.
Disclosure. I am not on disability but I have (and am) out of work. Of course this sometimes comes up with other mental health issues too.
I've heard of Byron Katie. I've been knee deep in Brenė Brown's work for about 8 months. She would advocate for not sharing that you are on disability until you get to know them. It's about keeping healthy boundaries.