There is one individual (male) in my workplace who tells me at least once each day to smile. I used to let it go but have recently started verbally replying with my inner thoughts. I’m afraid I’m going to go too far down the rabbit hole and let one of the inappropriate thoughts slide out. How do I make him stop without making it a thing?
Him: “Smile, (my name)”
Me: “This is just my face. I’m totally happy.”
Him: (same thing)
Me: “I’m like the happiest person around, what are you talking about?”
Him: “Haha…” Then nothing.
Him: “Smile, (my name)”
Me: “Is that like a reflex now or? This is just my face!”
Him: “Haha, it’s just your face. Funny.”
Like dude, STOP! Just stop being so concerned about my face and if I’m smiling!
I told my supervisor that it was super-annoying and she replied that he just does that. I don’t want to go to HR because I randomly get put into groups with him/work activities/meetings and I fear he will know it was me. Why do I care so much? But also, why should I have to smile just to appease him? I’ve already considered the psycho jack-o’-lantern smile each time I pass or a mask with a smile on it I pull up just for him but don’t want him to take this as a joke. Plus if I do go to HR it will be worse then. Thoughts?
To avoid a future edit: We are both happily married, have zero interest in each other and barely communicate minus the professional reasons listed above. It isn’t like that. We don’t joke or shoot the shit, it’s generally a very professional environment except for this MAN THAT KEEPS TELLING ME TO SMILE!