Last Tuesday at the corner cafe, I just wanted a plain coffee. The barista was pouring drinks like a machine during the rush hour chaos. I stared at the tip screen feeling guilty for even thinking about skipping it. But is it fair to tip for something that takes ten seconds to make? Then you see them sweating and dealing with a long line, and it changes your mind, doesn't it? I ended up adding a dollar just to ease my conscience.
My guilt tipping is so bad I once tipped a vending machine that gave me two bags of chips. That rush hour pressure turns me into a walking charity. I figure if someone's dealing with that mess for minimum wage, my extra dollar is basically a stress relief fee. It probably buys them one deep breath before the next customer yells about oat milk.