7 Common Bad Manners You Might Be Guilty Of (And How to Fix Them)

Have you ever found yourself in situations where you wished someone’s manners were just… better? You know, those moments when someone sneezes without covering their mouth, talks over everyone, or lets out a loud burp in public like it’s no big deal? Well… we’ve all been there!

These small lapses in etiquette might seem harmless, but they can really affect how comfortable and respected we feel around others. Politeness and good manners are like the glue that holds our social interactions together. They’re the unspoken rules that help us navigate the world with kindness, respect, and a little extra grace.

So today, I want to talk about 7 common manners that, with a little effort, we can all improve on. Let’s make our social manners and etiquette shine a little brighter.

1. No More Loud Burps! Please

I’m sure none of us feel comfortable farting in public. It’s embarrassing, and it can be quite awkward for everyone around. The same should apply to burping loudly. This behavior can make everyone nearby uncomfortable, and it’s extremely inappropriate, regardless of gender! It’s poor manners. Unfortunately, I’ve noticed some people (yes, even women!) do this without feeling embarrassed. Yikes!

Let’s be mindful of our manners, especially in public settings like workplaces, restaurants, or even when hanging out with friends and family. If you feel a burp coming on, cover your mouth, try to muffle the sound, and always say “Excuse me.” This creates a more comfortable environment for everyone. These small gestures show that we respect the people around us—and that’s what good manners are all about.

2. Cover Those Sneezes and Coughs!

Sneezing and coughing are natural reactions, but how we handle them makes a big difference. For the sake of everyone’s well-being, it’s crucial to cover your mouth during these moments to prevent the spread of germs. Just a simple tissue or the trusty elbow technique can help keep those pesky germs to ourselves, sparing others from potential illness.

It’s not just about hygiene; it’s about showing care for the people around you. Let’s take this small yet significant step to promote a healthier environment for all!

3. Laughter: Volume Control, Please!

Laughter is a wonderful expression of joy, and we absolutely love it! However, let’s remember to be mindful of the volume. Laughing loudly in inappropriate places can create awkward moments for everyone around.

Different environments call for different energy levels. A hearty laugh at a comedy show? Perfect. A loud cackle in a quiet café? Maybe not so much. Being aware of our surroundings and adjusting our laughter accordingly helps us respect others’ space and preferences.

Remember to keep the volume in check, ensuring our laughter spreads happiness without discomfort. Don’t worry; the fun and joy are still present—even with a quieter chuckle!

4. Social Events 101: Act Appropriately

Ever been to a party where someone didn’t quite fit in with their behavior? It happens, but here’s our chance to avoid being that person. Matching our actions to the event’s vibe shows respect for the occasion and the awesome people around us.

If it’s a fancy party, let’s show our best manners and appreciation for the event. If it’s a casual get-together, relax and have fun while still being considerate.

Read the room, adjust your tone, and respect the host’s effort. Social events are about sharing good times together. Acting appropriately means fitting in smoothly and making the gathering enjoyable for everyone. Keep this Social Events 101 tip in mind and make every event a blast—for yourself and everyone else!

5. For God’s Sake, Put the Phone Down

We all know how much we love our smartphones; they’re practically a part of us now! But let’s admit it—they can be quite distracting too. Whether we’re having a meaningful chat or attending an important meeting, focusing on the present moment can work wonders for our connections.

So, let’s put the phone down and give others our full attention to show we value what they’re saying. If you really need to use your phone, it’s polite to say “Excuse me” and step away, then return and be fully present again.

Let’s not let our lives revolve around our phones to the point where we’re unaware of what’s happening around us.

6. Zip It, Just for a Moment

Here’s a secret superpower for great conversations: active listening! Interrupting others mid-sentence can disrupt even the best chats. Hold back and give everyone a chance to share their thoughts.

When we truly listen instead of waiting for our turn to speak, we foster trust and deeper connections. Next time you feel the urge to jump in, take a breath and wait your turn. Engage in active listening, and you’ll be amazed at how much more meaningful the conversation becomes.

7. Look into the Eyes During Conversation

During conversations, our eyes play a vital role in communication. It’s important not to let our gaze wander elsewhere, look in the opposite direction, or get distracted by other activities.

Maintaining gentle, natural eye contact shows interest and attentiveness. By doing so, we convey that we truly value and respect the person speaking. It creates a strong sense of connection and mutual respect. Avoid staring too intensely though—keep it friendly and sincere!

Let’s Remember the Importance of Good Manners

Good manners aren’t about being stiff or overly formal—they’re about showing kindness, awareness, and respect for the people around us. A little consideration can go a long way in making the world a more pleasant place for everyone.

X, Hani.

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