7 Ways to Display Good Manners in Society Nowadays

In a very simple term, "good manners" (or etiquette) means acting in a way that is socially acceptable. It is a display of respect, care and consideration for others.

 

It is also a show of excellent character that helps you relate better with people whom you have just met without any previous relationship.

 

Good manners make you shine as a light for others to see your good character not just in words but in your actions.

 

That is why the late Zig Ziglar once said, "It’s your attitude, not your aptitude that will determine your altitude."

 

So, in this life, everyone must strive to develop excellent etiquette toward life and humanity and to genuinely demonstrate that etiquette in society. It’s a means to reach your greatest heights in life.

 

Because of the widespread loss of morals, values, virtues, decency, respect, standards, and culture in the twenty-first century, all religious leaders, parents, and governments must make every effort to teach and promote excellent etiquette in society.

 

 

Hence, the following are the seven (7) ways by which one can develop a good attitude and display the good manners learned in the process in society nowadays:

 

#1. Practicing Basic Courtesy

Courtesy is simply defined as "polite behaviour" that shows respect for other people. Learn to say ‘thank you’, "please", ‘sorry’, "take care", ‘excuse me’, to people even if they do not seem to care about it. It is a show of appreciation, concern, and care.

 

Do not shout, but always speak with a low voice when speaking to others. Although you may say that is how your voice is. It doesn’t matter; you can adjust or change that loud or provocative voice if you are determined to do so.

 

Some people will definitely notice when you are courteous and respectful to them. Such good manners will grant you favour with people. It will encourage good people to continue relating to you and wishing to assist you in the future.

 

 

#2. Express Preference for Others

It is usually good to prefer others above yourself; it shows that you are not self-centred.

 

If someone wants to push his or her way through, you make way for the person to pass instead of struggling with him. Give up your seat, especially for elderly people, if there is nowhere for him or her to sit.

 

You can also hold the door open for someone coming closely behind you to pass instead of leaving it to slam in his or her face.

 

 

#3. Speak Politely

Chat politely with others, regardless of the level of disagreement or how right you are.

 

Do not use abusive or harsh words on people. Avoid discussing rude or dirty topics like sensitive parts of your body, gossip, dirty jokes, or words that you do not want your religious leaders or parents to hear.

 

Keep the volume of your voice as low as possible, yet loud enough for your hearers to hear your side of the conversation.

 

Do not shout at or at people. Remember that God takes notes of every word that we speak.

 

 

#4. Lend a Hand

Try as much as possible to always help other people when there is a need for you to do so.

 

When you meet your teacher or an elderly person (whom you know well or those you do not know well but who live close to you) on your way, and you are going to the same place, assist him or her with carrying his or her bag.

 

When you go to a friend’s house to call him or her for school, or to play, assist with the house chores so that he or she can finish on time. With that, you will be the best friend his or her parents will want to be related to.

 

 

#5. Congratulate Others

Rejoice with and congratulate people who have recently achieved success or something very great. Never have a bad thought about someone who is making progress in life.

 

For instance, congratulate and welcome a new student into your class; a boy or girl who passes his/her examination; get a new job; a family who has just had a new baby; get promoted to a new high position; bought a new car; or moved into their private house.

 

Even when you are defeated in a sporting event, academic competition, contest or election, congratulate the winner. It may be your turn next time.

 

 

#6. Greetings

Recognise the presence of people around you and greet them appropriately. Appreciate people and say "thank you" for every kind word or deed.

 

Have self-control and don’t be talkative in the midst of others. Do not be proud. Be humble, warm, and loving.

 

 

#7. Properly Groom Yourself

Whether you are going to school, an office, a place of worship, or any other outing, your good manners will go unnoticed if you are not well groomed.

 

Take a shower regularly, put on clean clothes, and keep your hair neat and your nails short.

 

Finally, always have it at the back of your mind that 'respect is reciprocal’, and it is important you present yourself properly because "you will be addressed the way you dress," as quoted by Jaechynma N. E. Agu.

 

So, in order to live together peacefully, it is critical to begin developing and displaying good manners towards other people at various levels or areas, such as family, group, community, place of work, religious place, and organization.

 

 

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