Another Instalment Of George Washington’s Rules Of Civility & Decent Behavior
I thought it was time once again to visit George Washington’s Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior. Here are more tips to help us improve our social skills.
“8th: At Play and at Fire its Good manners to Give Place to the last Commer, and affect not to Speak Louder than Ordinary.”
Modern: Mind your volume when you speak. You don’t always need to be the loudest in the room.
“14th: Turn not your Back to others, especially in Speaking, Jog not the Table or Desk on which Another reads or writes, lean not upon anyone.”
Modern: Your body language says a lot about you. Do not turn your back on others when in conversation with them. This communicates disrespect and a lack of consideration. Do you want to appear calm and confident when you are out with others? Then let your posture transmit that by avoiding slouching or leaning on anyone or object around you.
“35th: Let your Discourse with Men of Business be Short and Comprehensive.”
Modern: Be astute when it comes to business meetings. Not all cultures and business people appreciate small talk, while others see it as important as the reason for getting together. Follow the lead of your hosts.
“62nd: Speak not of doleful Things in a Time of Mirth or at the Table; Speak not of Melancholy Things as Death and Wounds, and if others Mention them Change if you can the Discourse tell not your Dreams, but to your intimate Friend.”
Modern: Use celebrations as a time to celebrate. Don’t be the bearer of bad news. When sharing a meal with loved ones, encourage uplifting conversations that make for good memories and company.
“76th: While you are talking, Point not with your Finger at him of Whom you Discourse nor Approach too near him to whom you talk especially to his face.”
Modern: Respect others’ personal space when conversing with them. Don’t stand so close that your audience is uncomfortable and don’t be too far that they have to strain to hear you. Pointing a finger when making a point may across as aggressive and sour the atmosphere.
“78th: Make no Comparisons and if any of the Company be Commended for any brave act of virtue, commend not another for the Same.”
Modern: When someone is being celebrated for their accomplishments, keep the spotlight on them. Sharing our own successes or someone else’s takes away from their time to shine.
“80th: Be not Tedious in Discourse or in reading unless you find the Company pleased therewith.”
Modern: Read the room, just because a topic is of interest to you does not mean that your audience is on the same page. Know when, where and with whom to discuss any given topic.
“81th: Be not Curious to Know the Affairs of Others neither approach those that Speak in Private.”
Modern: Be respectful of other people’s privacy. Remember that no one is obligated to share the details of their life with you, and the reason is hardly ever personal.
Adding a modern tone to the timeless rules is a great reminder of the importance of being polite and respectful wherever we go.
