The Top 5 Lessons in Social Etiquette That So Many Have Forgotten
Hey there, pals! Let’s get to something that is almost always on my mind, but for the sake of not looking like a snob, I rarely ever say anything: social etiquette. You know, those unspoken (yet imperative) rules that help us all get along and not get on each other’s nerves in any significant way.
Let’s be real though… sometimes we forget them. And that’s totally okay! The pitfalls of being human pale in comparison to the perks, right?
… right?
Anyway, in the spirit of being helpful and not wanting to get on your nerves, I’ve put together a list of the 5 most crucial social etiquette rules that so many of us seem to forget. So, listen up, and listen good. It’s about to get rather real in here…
- Don’t be too talkative (especially, with those whom you have just met).
We all know the type. The person who won’t stop talking, even when you’re trying to get a word in edgewise. The one who dominates the conversation and makes it all about them. The one who even hijacks conversations in which they were not involved, and proceeds to speak the loudest.
Yeah, that’s not cool. Now, I’m not saying that you should never talk. That would be absurd, and somewhat depressing (probably not too healthy either). But, let’s all try to be a little more mindful of how much we’re talking and make sure we’re giving others a chance to share their thoughts too. It’s called a “conversation” for a reason, folks!
2. Try to refrain from being nosy/eavesdropping/being imposing.
We’ve all been there. You know, when you’re in a situation where you just can’t help but overhear a juicy conversation between two people. And, as we all know, it can be pretty tempting to listen in as the tea is getting spilt. But, here’s the thing: it’s just not polite. It’s important to respect people’s privacy and not try to eavesdrop on their conversations. If you want to know what’s going on, try asking them directly. It’s a lot more respectful that way. They will also respect you more than if they were to find out you were just listening in (like a creep).
Be mindful of inviting yourself into conversations, lunches, and extracurricular activities with friends, coworkers, and even family. Being the one who is always just inviting themselves along is not charming.
3. Be punctual. People will respect you more for it.
Whether it’s a meeting, a dinner date, or just a casual hangout, it’s important to be on time. And, if you are running late, let the others know! It’s courteous to give them a heads up so they’re not left waiting around for you. Being left hanging, or not clued in, can feel like an ultimate disrespect in some circles.
But, in either case, being on time does say a lot about one’s character, especially in first impression type situations.
4. Don’t chew with your mouth open.
This is some real life stuff... but many of us enjoy food… yes. Gum… yes. But, seriously, it’s not very attractive to watch someone chewing with their mouth open. And, it’s not just about aesthetics. Some people have a condition called Misophonia, a strong dislike or hatred of certain sounds, like chewing or breathing? It’s real, folks, and it’s more common than you might think. So, do us all a favor and keep your mouth closed while you’re eating or chewing gum. It’s just good manners, people!
5. When correcting someone, do it in privately rather than in front of everyone. The person you are correcting will respect you more.
Everyone is familiar with that ever so human ache inside to correct someone when you know they have said or done something incorrectly. However, it is really not a good look to be doing that in front of others… not for you, the corrector, or the corrected.
If you wish to stay of good terms with the one you are correcting, take them aside (like a pal) and let them know. For some people, being corrected in public can be rather insulting, even if you meant well.
