Step aside early on a narrow pavement
Whoever moves first is usually whoever is least able to. Deciding to be the one who moves is free.
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Why it lands
Narrow pavements produce a small game of chicken that is resolved by whoever concedes, and social hierarchy does a lot of the resolving — people with pushchairs, wheelchairs, sticks and shopping routinely step into the road because someone else did not move. Deciding in advance always to be the one who gives way removes you from the game entirely and costs a second.
How
Step aside early enough to be unambiguous, before the awkward mutual hesitation. Move into a gateway or a driveway rather than making them squeeze. Do not expect acknowledgement.
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