SEKUSHII BEAMU

Okay, I really don’t like posts like this, but I got some weird looks playing Pokémon Go. So here’s some tips based on experience, other’s testimonies, and common sense.

-Turn off the AR camera unless you’re trying to get a photo. Not only will people think you’re trying to photograph them, but the AR camera drains your phone battery and makes the game significantly harder. -If you’re relying on audio cues, use discreet headphones and ear buds. Also, make sure your audio device won’t impair your ability to hear the outside world. Do not leave your home looking like you’re going on a long flight. -Does not stare at your phone. Keep your eyes in motion. -Be aware of ‘normal people hours’. If you must go out at night because of your schedule, strategy, or a Pokémon, then be quiet and do not look suspicious. -Don’t Go and drive. Seriously. There are enough distracted drivers out there. -Be polite to others to a reasonable extent. Do not bump into them. Do not point your phone at them. Wave when you are waved to. -Does not enter any buildings you do not have any business in, and DO NOT GO ANYWHERE NEAR A CHILD-ONLY SPACE IF YOU ARE AN ADULT. Most Poke-stops and gyms can be accessed by only going near them. -If you’re approached because of your behavior/movement patterns playing this game, Be as up-front as you feel you feel is reasonable. Tell them you are playing a game, and provide receipts. - If you know an area that has surveillance cameras, consider avoiding it. Ingress players have noted that they have triggered false positives for suspicious behavior. -Remember that you may be walking long distances, and plan accordingly. Consider wearing sweats and bringing water with you. -Pace yourself. Sit down if you find a bench to rest at. Do not run if you aren’t a runner and have no plans on taking up running.

This is so important. While playing Ingress, I’ve been approached by many people (including cops) for being suspicious; if you’re just up and honest with them most people will understand and leave you be. Just tell them you’re playing a location-based game and that there’s notable spots nearby.

Learn from my mistakes on this one you guys. 

Dear Self,

It is okay.

It is okay to go to sleep when you are tired, even if other people aren’t yet.

It is okay to sleep as many hours as you need, rather than as few as you can survive on.

It is okay to eat when you are hungry, even if other people aren’t yet.

It is okay to eat food you actually like, and you don’t always have to share it.

It is okay to put the heating on if you are cold. Or wear more clothes.

It is okay to use enough hot water for baths to be actually warm.

It is okay to stop talking if you run out of spoons. 

It is okay to play the albums you want to hear rather than only the ones you know the people around you like.

It is okay to say “no” to people.

It is okay to say “no” to people even when the question was “are you okay?”

It is okay to have free time.

It is okay to switch your phone off sometimes.

It is okay to change your mind.

It is okay to stop liking things. Or start.

It is okay to not keep things you don’t want. 

It is okay to keep things you do want.

It is okay to ask for help with your problems. Yes, even when your friends have problems too.

It is okay to pray if you need/want to. Even if people are looking.

It is okay to make mistakes.

It is okay to take up space in the world.

It is okay to expect and ask for fair and humane treatment from others.

It is okay that you exist.