The Irish goodbye becomes famous

The Irish goodbye is also known as the shamrock shuffle.  It’s more than likely that once in your life you have committed this act.

Why it is called the Irish goodbye remains a mystery. Rumor has it an enraged woman coined the term after her second Irish boyfriend in a row disappeared without a trace at the end of a date.

It’s that stage during the middle of a social gathering where by you decide to disappear into the abyss without telling anyone. Not bothered with niceties, extended farewells or the long kiss goodnight. You simply up and leave.

Considered rude by some and a clever escape by many, this move have been branded “the Irish Goodbye."

Once you have reached the point of no return, the time has come for your Irish goodbye (IGB). Perhaps you have had too much to drink; maybe that girl you got stuck talking to bored you to tears, or worse you have just spotted your ex across the bar. Whatever the reason, you need to make a quick exit, unnoticed.

Of course, there are logistics to consider. Here are some tips to help you disappear into the dark of night, without been seen.

1. Exit route

Scope out the joint to locate your closest exit route. Take into account that you want to run into as few people as possible on your way out. A back door can come in handy here for a quick stage exit.

2. Plan ahead

When planning ahead, try not to bring any large jackets/coats/bags with you as this is the ultimate give away. If you cannot avoid this, then use the smoking excuse as part of your escape.

3. Act casual

As you begin your break out, try to look as casual as possible. If a comrade stops you along the way, assure them you are just dashing to the restroom. Your focus here should be on crossing that threshold. Once you get out that door, you are on the home run.

4. Tell one person

Dependant on the group you’ve left behind, perhaps throw a text to one of your bffs alerting them to your IGB.

Everyone does it so there is no need to feel guilty. Sometimes, it’s better to vacate the premises and what better exit strategy than an Irish goodbye.

*Originally published in 2013.