Tuesday, July 28, 2009

#4 THE GOLDEN RULE, Part II


How does one apply the Golden Rule in everyday life? First, it begins with a series of quality decisions to do so. Do you desire to be the best, kindest, most polite person you can be, in spite of how you might be feeling on any given day?

Second, self-awareness is a next good step in the process. Do you leave the house with your game face on, ready to take on the world and all that will be thrown at you with grace and diplomacy? This requires a decision.

Third, awareness of others is the next important thing to consider. Consideration for others is an essential etiquette tool. How will my behavior affect those around me? Do I even care? How would I feel, if someone totally disregarded my presence or my feelings? Consideration is a sign of respect for others and self. And, think about it, when given, respect is duly noted and appreciated.

Pleasantness is infectious, along with other mood elevating qualities, like laughter, optimism and of course, good manners. Again, you have a choice to either set or change the atmosphere you encounter. Also, how you answer most of these questions can be quite telling. Once you know where you are standing, you can determine where to go next.

And, how does the Golden Rule apply to handling embarrassing situations, such as yawns, burps, sneezes, runny noses or dare I say it, gas, in public? The correct responses are: by always covering your mouth and saying, “pardon me.” And for the latter two, excusing yourself from present company.

Shockingly, today we witness a total disregard in most of these areas, even in the workplace. Consider your own responses well, or you just might be classified as a pig-in-shoes. Take care that the next rude person you encounter could very easily be you. – Ms. EtiQ

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