What are the origins of this fun-filled festive custom?
It's ok to ask someone once where they're from, but then accept whatever answer they give. If someone appears to be of a different ethnicity than you or has an accent, it's natural to be curious about their history, but it's impolite to ask outright.
It only takes the glow of one cellphone to light up an entire theater in the most annoying way possible. Resist the temptation to look at your phone until after the movie.
Not everyone wants to be all over social media. What you think is fun, others may see as embarrassing, or perhaps they just prefer privacy, and respecting that is a modern etiquette.
Anything that you sweat on needs to be wiped down with sanitizing spray or wipes, whether that's a weight bench, bike seat, or treadmill.
In most places, it's considered polite to keep to the right on sidewalks and stairs, allowing people to pass you on the left. Be sure you keep moving with the flow, and be careful not to block the sidewalk with a large group.
Avoid getting other people sick when you're suffering from a contagious illness by staying home until you're better.
A common etiquette mistake people make is not being honest and instead saying "yes" or "maybe" when what they really mean is "no." When you say "no," people may be disappointed, but they'll understand.
While it may be tempting to immediately retaliate to a snarky text message, such responses often backfire. Instead, take a moment to compose yourself and wait a day before replying.
Proper etiquette doesn't dictate that you answer every text immediately, but you should answer within 24 hours, and within eight hours if it's someone close to you.
Don't clip your nails, brush your hair, or floss your teeth in public. That's just gross.
Replying to a group email with "Got it!" or "Thanks!" is irritating and inefficient. It's also a way to make sure your emails get ignored in the future.
It's common courtesy to reach out to people who are grieving. If you don’t know what to say, simply give your condolences.
The same rule goes for the train and the bus!
It's the number one rule of etiquette for dog owners. If your dog poops, you pick it up in a plastic bag and dispose of it in a public garbage can.
Sometimes, being late is just a bad circumstance, but if you're late often, then it's a choice you’re making. Time is precious, so avoid making people wait for you.
Whoever reaches the door first is the person who should hold it open, regardless of gender. And if someone holds the door for you, always say "thank you."
If you have to take a call, step outside to avoid disturbing the people around you.
Haven't we learned enough from COVID-19? Whether it's the flu or a common cold, make sure you're doing what you can to avoid spreading germs.
Never yell or wave your hand at a waiter. Be patient, or politely get their attention when they pass by.
Manspreading is the practice of sitting with the knees so far apart it invades others' personal space. So be conscious of how you're sitting, especially while commuting.
If you're in perfectly good health, offer your seat to anyone who is either in poor health or pregnant.
Listen to how people introduce themselves and loved ones, and then follow their lead. If you're unsure, it's fine to politely ask.
If you're having a drink at a friend or acquaintance's house, always put your glass or cup on a coaster to avoid damaging their table or leaving any water rings for your host to clean up.
Whether you say them to a sales assistant in a store or your significant other, "please" and "thank you" are polite expressions of appreciation, gratitude, and politeness.
Not looking at the person speaking to you suggests you're uninterested and is considered impolite.
Whether it's at the dinner table at home, in a restaurant with co-workers, or in a movie theater with friends, the people you're with take precedence over your phone, so put it away and be present in the moment.
Whether you're dining at home or in a restaurant, proper table etiquette still dictates that you wait to begin eating the meal until everyone is served, and the host begins to eat.
If you have a food allergy, make sure to mention it ahead of time. But if you don't like Brussels sprouts or don't do carbs, don't announce it in front of everyone and expect a new dish to be cooked for you.
If you're going to dinner at someone's home, don't go empty-handed. Always take something, like a bottle of wine or flowers.
Sources: (Country Living) (Reader's Digest) (Parade)
See also: These 30 things should be more socially acceptable
Be it your kids, pets, or someone you started dating recently, don't assume they're automatically invited. No matter how well you know your host, ask before bringing a guest.
So click on for everyday etiquette tips that will help you navigate any situation smoothly.
Etiquette rules you should always follow
Make the world a nicer place with these simple gestures
LIFESTYLE Society
Etiquette isn't about old-fashioned politeness or outdated rules about which fork to use. At its core, good etiquette is about being kind, making people comfortable, and behaving in a socially acceptable way. As the art of good etiquette changes with the times, it's important to pay attention to modern manners.
So click on for everyday etiquette tips that will help you navigate any situation smoothly.