Modern Etiquette

Whether you're in a business setting or just walking down the street, the modern rules of etiquette and manners may seem to be void from everyone you encounter. Is a renaissance of polite behavior upon us or are we heading into the dark age? Americans worldwide are known for being rude, but even within our own borders we tend to be snarky and forget how to be civilized.

Have you been in line at Starbucks and over heard another patron get snippy with the barista over making a small mistake on their drink? Or maybe you've been walking down the sidewalk and you get behind a group of three who refuse to move out of the way so you can pass? Maybe you're in an industry that has a lot of demands and you often see a co-worker loose their cool in a situation or become really mean with a service rep that's trying to help resolve an issue? We live in a day and age where the line between work/life stresses seem to be blurred, and it can seem like everyone wants a piece of you. Generally, when we get stressed or angered we tend to forget how to retain any manners (even when the person we're dealing with may have none), but that's when they're most needed.

As in any situation you can't control what others do or say, but you do have the power over your own actions and words. Remember that others are watching (your children, friends, and co-workers) and what you do or say can speak volumes on what others secretly think about you. Basic manners go a long way, and can really impact your life and personal happiness.

Some helpful links:

• The New Etiquette (book)
• Simple Thinking: Difficult People (link)
• Managing Stress (link)