Bag, move over.

Every time I walk into a hall, a conference room, or a theater, I see the same scene: a bag sitting on the next chair with the air of “I can do whatever I want.” As if the seat is reserved for Her Royal Highness.

You know what that really is? It’s a signal. A social gesture that screams, “This is mine!” — including the space under and around that bag.

Wait a second — doesn’t it feel like an echo of the Wild West? Remember those farmers with stakes, claiming land: “This is my territory!” Well, now, instead of land plots, we’re marking chairs. Yes, my friends, in the age of gadgets and the internet, we’re still marking territory.

The problem is, the “bag tactic” works against us. Imagine: you’re sitting there guarding your space, alone, with a face like someone just told you the Wi-Fi isn’t free. Meanwhile, the very people who could become your next big deal, new partners, or just great acquaintances are walking right past.

It’s especially odd — and a bit sad — when this happens at a conference, where the real value lies in networking. The organizers put in the effort: they filter the audience, raise ticket prices to bring the best people together — and yet you sit there, defending the throne of your bag.

How to do it differently?

Do good. Keep the seat “under your control” until someone walks in a little late. Greet them, invite them to sit. A simple act of goodwill you can turn into a conversation: “Hi, you know, I often rush in at the last minute too. Did something important come up at work?”

Your bag will find a spot, too.
On your lap.
Between you and your new acquaintance (which might even give you a fun opener: “My bag decides who becomes my next business partner!”).
Or maybe on a nearby table, if there is one.

Yes, at first it might feel awkward or inconvenient. But just think: a little discomfort can turn into “a crazy return on investment” — as a friend of mine says, whom I met thanks to his backpack. That backpack, by the way, I rather shamelessly asked him to move from a chair at one of the conferences.

Claimed a spot? Great — but share your resources.

Freed up a seat for someone? Even better, because that way you’re opening doors to new opportunities.

And what about the bag? It’s always with you. But a chance encounter is a resource that can unexpectedly bring not only value but joy.

So let your bag live a little more modestly for a while. It definitely won’t mind. 😊