Are You On The List?
One of the local pools offers a service where you can pre-book your swimming in advance. For most days when the demand is low, it isn’t really necessary. For those odd times when demand surges, it guarantees a place to swim.
However, there is another benefit that tickles the ego. It’s that upon arrival, you’re on “the list”. It’s the list of all those who have pre-registered… just go right in and enjoy your swim. No need to stop, give your contact information, pay, etc.
The friction of registering and paying was done at home, long before you set out. It wasn’t necessary, but it gave a little dopamine hit that now you slightly look forward to that check in process, with someone anticipating my arrival, as opposed to a potential conflict.
One can wonder about other services where drop-ins are often the case but pre-booking can offer some concierge-type advantages. Car wash? You’re on the list. Bowling lane? You’re on the list. Just go right in…
