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The First Parking Spot You See May be the Most Efficient Spot to Take


When you're trying to find a parking spot in packed parking lot, many of us spend a lot of time and energy to find the closest spot to the entrance as we can. It's more likely that taking the first spot you see is really the most efficient in regards to your time and energy.

We've all done it. You're taking laps around the parking lot in hopes that the perfect spot will be open the next time around. As Catey Hill at MarketWatch puts it, someone with this mindset is either a "vulture" or a "stalker." Vultures circle around the lot over and over in hopes they'll find the ideal spot, while stalkers look for people headed back to their vehicles in hopes they can snag their spot. Time management expert Jamie Novak suggests instead that you take the first spot you see, no matter where it is. Yes, you might have to walk a little more, but you'll probably beat the vultures and stalkers to the door. Additionally, you'll save yourself the stress of looking for a spot and use less gas cruising around the lot. Makes sense, right?

Of course, there are always exceptions. If you know you'll be picking up something particularly heavy, or maybe something valuable late at night, a close spot is still beneficial. When you're just doing some regular shopping, however, grab the first spot you see and get on with it. You might be surprised how much faster the whole process is and how nice a short walk will feel.

7 Secrets to Scoring a Plum Parking Spot | MarketWatch

Photo by Nic Redhead.