Make it a habit to say “thank you” or “you’re welcome”.
Let the waiter serve the ladies first. Always.
Let the elderly go ahead of you – in a queue. Unless you’re in an emergency situation.
Answer a question if you’re being asked. Even if all you can say is, “Sorry. I don’t know.”
Listen without looking distracted.
Remember that the higher your position, the more polite you should be.
Being bossy isn’t considered a good quality of a boss.
Don’t criticize as a hobby.
Return a favor. Don’t always be a Taker.
Ask how the other person is, after talking about yourself.
Time yourself when you’re talking about yourself. Three minutes max is a stretch but it’s still polite enough. (A TV commercial takes only 30 seconds.)
Acknowledge someone who does a good job.
Praise someone fast, lest you forget!
Encourage – especially when you sense the person needs it. What have you got to lose?
Preach in church. Not over dinner.
Using illustrations or examples about success or victories? Try talking about others, not just yourself or your kids.
Be humble – and don’t make a big deal about it.
You need a favor from someone? Don’t use flattery. Just ask.
Were you rejected? Accept it calmly. Suppress rage, entitlement, self-pity, or the desire to exact revenge.
Strictly apply a give-and-take rule. When you receive a blessing, give away a blessing, too!
When you’re being praised, remember to thank the people who helped you.
When you don’t agree, keep it calm and classy.
Don’t be overcompetitive. Allow others to shine.
You don’t have to know it all, all the time.
Never underestimate the power of little people. The waiter you’re rude to can spit in your soup. The chambermaid you’re nice to can put lots of bath crystals in your bathroom. The bellboy you tipped well can decide to get your luggage first when you’re in a rush to check out.
Be kind to your secretary. S/he can crush you. Same thing goes for your spouse.
If you know you messed up, admit it right away and apologize.
Expect to have a bad reputation if you’re bossy, impolite, unkind, ungrateful.
When you’re being bashed (and this applies not only to politicians), don’t bash back. If necessary, reply politely. “A gentle answer turns away wrath.”
It’s Jesus’ way of saying – “Keep it classy.”
Anyone who listens to the Gospel politely – even if he’s not really interested – has a better chance of being saved. Well, better than someone who’s arrogant and won’t even listen.
Sorry, couldn’t resist the last one!
