*Please note this post was written before the Paris attacks occurred. Sending all of our love to the people of France.
It's Friday the 13th, so whether you're just unlucky enough to still be at work, or you're hiding from the world, let's convo!
Given that this day has plenty of superstitions surrounding it, if you can't think of anything to talk about, let's discuss little rituals and weird beliefs. Do you avoid stepping on cracks? Do you make a wish at 11:11 or 3:33? Avoid walking under ladders? Afraid of breaking mirrors? Lucky underwear or football jersey?
According to the Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute in Asheville, North Carolina, an estimated 17 to 21 million people in the United States are affected by a fear of this day, making it the most feared day and date in history. Some people are so paralyzed by fear that they avoid their normal routines in doing business, taking flights or even getting out of bed. "It's been estimated that [US]$800 or $900 million is lost in business on this day". Despite this, representatives for both Delta Air Lines and now-defunct Continental Airlines have stated that their airlines do not suffer from any noticeable drop in travel on those Fridays.
In Finland, a consortium of governmental and nongovernmental organizations led by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health promotes the National Accident Day, which always falls on a Friday 13th.
Nice one, Finland. I'll leave you with this: