Eeewww! Didn't his mother ever tell him not to do that?
Let's at least try, in the era of almost everyone over-sharing, Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, and nothing-ever-seems-to-be-kept-private-anymore to reclaim and maintain some standards of pleasant, polite behavior. And I'm talking to us average guys. It's as much a part of kicking up our personal style a notch or three as classic clothing, shoes, and accessories. Really, it is. You could be the best dressed, most educated, most financially well off, and most physically attractive person in a room, but crass behavior will undermine all of that. Fast. Trust me.
How we look and behave -- and no, it's not nice, but it's a fact of life -- speak volumes about us, who we are, and where we come from. A sloppy appearance combined with bad language and unrefined behavior will keep lots of people -- family, potential dates, spouses, co-workers, and supervisors for example -- from 'hearing' anything that you might have to say. Even if it is the most profound observation or vital piece of information.
So, the message for today is this. Let's stop glorifying the crass, the boorish, the stupid, the crude, and the ignorant in others and ourselves. Let's begin by reigning in our own behaviors and strive for some sophistication and refinement. There's nothing wrong with that.
Pay attention things like grooming (in all senses), common courtesy and decency in all situations, and basic table manners. Make it your business to learn the ropes of pleasant behavior. The basic social P's & Q's if you will. No more excuses. These are extremely important skills, personally and professionally speaking. And the chances are pretty good that those around you will appreciate your efforts even if they say nothing.
An easy-to-remember rule of thumb is this. Think before you let it all hang out. If there is ever any doubt in your mind about some habit or behavior of yours that might potentially embarrass, irritate, or offend someone else, you probably shouldn't do it. And if you can't, or refuse, to see my point? Well, there's nothing I can do about it. But our paths will never cross for more than a few moments anytime soon. Of that, I can assure you.
How we look and behave -- and no, it's not nice, but it's a fact of life -- speak volumes about us, who we are, and where we come from. A sloppy appearance combined with bad language and unrefined behavior will keep lots of people -- family, potential dates, spouses, co-workers, and supervisors for example -- from 'hearing' anything that you might have to say. Even if it is the most profound observation or vital piece of information.
So, the message for today is this. Let's stop glorifying the crass, the boorish, the stupid, the crude, and the ignorant in others and ourselves. Let's begin by reigning in our own behaviors and strive for some sophistication and refinement. There's nothing wrong with that.
Pay attention things like grooming (in all senses), common courtesy and decency in all situations, and basic table manners. Make it your business to learn the ropes of pleasant behavior. The basic social P's & Q's if you will. No more excuses. These are extremely important skills, personally and professionally speaking. And the chances are pretty good that those around you will appreciate your efforts even if they say nothing.
An easy-to-remember rule of thumb is this. Think before you let it all hang out. If there is ever any doubt in your mind about some habit or behavior of yours that might potentially embarrass, irritate, or offend someone else, you probably shouldn't do it. And if you can't, or refuse, to see my point? Well, there's nothing I can do about it. But our paths will never cross for more than a few moments anytime soon. Of that, I can assure you.
Comments
Post a Comment
All opinions are welcome here. Even those that differ from mine. But let's keep it clean and civil, please.
-- Heinz-Ulrich