Navigating the Challenges of Being Tall: Daily Struggles and Unique Benefits

I stand 6'8" in stocking feet, and a standard 6'8" doorway is a constant challenge. My feet often hang over the end of the bed, and finding clothes, shoes, and chairs that are high enough to get out of easily are other daily struggles. Constant fear of ceiling fans adds to this list of concerns, but there are also many benefits that offset these challenges.

Common Problems Faced by Tall People

Although standing tall provides many positive attributes, such as a protective advantage due to height, the daily challenges can make life more complicated. Some common issues include hitting your head on doorways, headboards, or having to ask for help to change light bulbs or complete other height-related tasks. These experiences can lead to amusing situations or, in some cases, harmful accidents.

Accidental Head Bumps

Accidents can happen anywhere, but for tall individuals, these are more frequent. In old buildings, especially, women often accidentally bump their heads. Another common challenge is finding a suitable bed, as many furniture stores do not stock beds large enough for people who are 7'2" or taller. Custom-made beds and corresponding linens become necessary, which can be both inconvenient and expensive. The same goes for cars, where not all models have enough headroom for tall individuals.

Public Perception

Public perception plays a significant role in the daily experiences of tall people. People often stare and make comments, and tall individuals may find themselves serving as a sort of gateway for others, making paths for shorter people to pass through. My observations as a woman with many tall men in my family highlight these recurring issues. For example, when taking my 6'5" son and my 6'1" husband to a shoe store, people would make a path for my son to pass through, showing both the positive and negative aspects of this phenomenon.

Life-Sized Furniture

Furniture is not sized for tall people; beds are commonly not long enough, shower heads hit them in the chest, and toilets are too short, making sitting more difficult. These physical limitations can make daily tasks feel like a challenge. Sometimes door frames can be a problem for tall people, which means they are constantly ducking to avoid hitting their heads. Similarly, finding a car with enough headroom is a problem for tall people, and for tall people with long legs, leg room can also be an issue in vehicles and airplanes.

Partnering with Tall Individuals

Finding a partner can be difficult for tall individuals. Partners usually prefer someone of a similar height, and this can make the search more challenging. An interesting anecdote comes to mind: with my tall son and myself walking down the main street of old New Orleans, my son's long blond hair, and black utilikilt, passersby quickly backed away due to the mistaken belief that he was a potential threat. This demonstrates how tall individuals can be perceived in different ways, providing a certain level of protection but also potential distrust from others.

Concluding Remarks

Being tall comes with its set of challenges, from physical obstacles to societal perceptions. However, there are also unique benefits that can make up for these difficulties. Being able to navigate higher and harder places more easily can be both a challenge and a perk. Regardless, tall individuals find ways to adapt and thrive, often with a good sense of humor and a strong support system behind them.