BDSM clubs - submitting to (or dominating) 'strangers'

[DeityorDevil]

I would consider "topping" for a relative stranger, taking the reins for that encounter, but truly being Dom to someone I don't know well is simply not an option for me personally. I prefer to know someone well enough to know their buttons, and which ones to push for the desired effect. It just isn't as fun for me to "play" with a guy I have to guess about, regardless of whether they've elected to submit or bottom. I have done it, back when I did many other irresponsible things, no condemnation either way. It just isn't an activity that presently appeals. Someone else's submission puts a great deal of responsibility in my hands, and I'd rather only be responsible for those close to me.

[ar1]

I would consider "topping" for a relative stranger, taking the reins for that encounter, but truly being Dom to someone I don't know well is simply not an option for me personally.

Just to be 100% clear, can you explain how you see the difference between topping/bottoming and submitting/dominating? What is it that would make you consider topping for a relative stranger but not domming them? Thanks.