Serving tables is no simple task—it’s a role that demands emotional agility, social awareness, and the ability to perform well under pressure. In the restaurant industry, servers often juggle dozens of tasks while catering to guests from all walks of life. They are expected to stay pleasant, responsive, and efficient—even when faced with difficult customers or chaotic work conditions.

The author admits to never having worked as a server but expresses admiration for those who do. Being on the front lines of hospitality offers life lessons that extend far beyond food service. The ability to remain calm, patient, and adaptive in unpredictable, fast-paced environments is something many professions require, but few instill as deeply as serving.

Despite their best efforts, servers frequently face recurring challenges brought on by customer behavior. One example is the “camper”—a guest who remains at the table long after eating, tying up the space during peak hours and reducing tips by limiting turnover.

Then there are the “indecisive orderers” who constantly revise their food choices, creating unnecessary delays and complications for both servers and kitchen staff. Equally frustrating are “phantom tippers”—patrons who receive excellent service but leave little or no tip.

More annoyances include guests who ask to split the bill in confusing or time-consuming ways, customize orders so heavily they’re barely recognizable, or spend the entire meal on their phones, disengaged from the dining experience. Worst of all may be the customers who walk in just before closing and place full meal orders, forcing the staff to stay late.

While each of these situations might seem minor, they cumulatively wear on the server’s morale and efficiency. Servers must mask their frustration and continue delivering top-notch service regardless of how they’re treated.

The author’s message is clear: restaurant staff deserve more empathy and appreciation. These everyday service workers often go unnoticed, but they play a vital role in shaping our dining experiences.

Ultimately, small acts of courtesy—like being timely, tipping fairly, and showing respect—can make a big difference. In an often thankless job, even a little kindness can go a long way.