E is Etiquette

According to Merriam-Webster: “the conduct or procedure required by good breeding or prescribed by authority to be observed in social or official life”

It seems like we don’t teach etiquette anymore. These are the things that can make you stand out as special – in a good way. These are things that make you feel good about yourself because you are doing nice things. These are the things that make people know that you were brought up “right” and have good breeding.

Here are some of the things that I don’t see on a usual basis anymore (and would like to):

·      Men holding doors open for women (I don’t care if it is sexist, I like it).

·      Holding doors open for the people behind you entering the same door.

·      Sending handwritten thank you notes.

·      Saying please when requesting something.

·      Letting people out of an elevator before entering.

·      Not talking with food in your mouth.

·      Sending an RSVP when you can or can’t attend an event.

·      Setting the table with forks, spoons, and knives in the correct spot.

·      Calling people to see if it is alright to visit them.

·      Dressing appropriately for different types of events.

·      Talking in soft voices when inside public places.

·      Not talking on cell phones in restaurants.

·      Not texting or talking on you cell phone when you are visiting with other people.

·      Allowing other people to go first through doors if you both arrive at the same time.

·      Cleaning up after yourself if you make a mess somewhere.

·      Not gossiping about other people.

I think as a teacher, these are some things that I could teach my students. They are little things and would make them look good when they are around others. Some are just good common sense items.

What are some etiquette that you would like to see others show? Please share.