Q: I noticed that my co-worker, who sits in the cubicle next to mine, has been losing weight over the last few months. My guess is that she’s lost at least 20 lbs. Since it seems like everyone is on Ozempic, is it OK if I ask her if she’s taking that medication? I mean, she looks really good, but I don’t want to offend her.
Sincerely, Karen Sue in Kittanning
A: It’s nice that you want to compliment your co-worker, especially when everyone in the office is so tense these days. But asking directly about weight loss and medications can be a slippery slope. It’s like asking someone how much their new outfit cost — everyone wants to know, but no one wants to appear too nosy.
Instead of diving straight into Ozempic waters, maybe try a more general approach. Compliment her on how radiant and healthy she looks. Something like, “Wow, you’ve been looking amazing lately! What’s your secret?” is casual and flattering without implying anything about specific diets, medications, or if she’s joined the Ozempic craze.
If she’s open about it, all good. She’ll share whatever she’s comfortable with. If not, you’ll be able to tell right away how much she’s willing to share. Some people are an open book about diets and their exercise routine. Others, not so much.
Bottom line: Stick with the positive vibes and let her share if and when she’s ready. Because, honestly, no one wants to be that person who asks, “Are you on Ozempic, or are you just glowing from inner peace?” Keep it light, my friend!
Q: I am struggling with the way people answer when I say “thank you.” I’ve noticed that some people tend to answer “of course” instead of “you’re welcome,” which I feel is more appropriate. When people say “of course,” it seems curt and a little impolite. Am I being too sensitive, or is this a generational issue?
Walter in Mt. Pleasant
A: This one’s a little tricky because, as with most things in life, context is everything. You’ve got “you’re welcome,” which is the classic, polite and go-to phrase for most formal occasions. Some folks opt for breezy responses like “Any time!” or “My pleasure!” Then there’s “of course!” which is a bit more casual, almost like a way of saying, “What, you think I wouldn’t do that for you?”
You’re not being too sensitive, but it could very well be a generational thing. Older generations may lean heavily on the “you’re welcome” as the gold standard of polite society. Meanwhile, younger folks may say “of course” as part of the trend of making everything feel more relaxed and informal. It’s like the new “no problem” — quick, easy and meant to convey, “Hey, it was nothing!”
Now, if you’re getting “of course” in a situation where it feels like they’re brushing you off, then yeah, maybe it’s a little curt. But if it’s coming from a friend or a coworker in a casual exchange, they might just be channeling a little less formality.
Let’s put it this way: “You’re welcome” still reigns supreme for making things feel warm and thoughtful, but don’t stress if someone drops an “of course” — it’s just their way of saying, “Happy to help!”
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