Courtesy

Courtesy is defined by the Merriam Webster Dictionary as "behavior marked by polished manners or respect for others". it is an essential component of chivalry and of all standards of decent behavior.

A key element of conservatism is concern for the loss of courtesy in modern society, and the corrosive effect this has upon the structures of society as a whole. Recognizing that the traditions and mores of courtesy have value and are worth preserving is, by definition, conservative; thus, courtesy is an inherently conservative value.

An important part of being more courteous is having a positive attitude, showing more appreciation and smiling more.

The smiley, often called a Smiley face, is a symbol frequently used to express happiness.

To become more courteous:^[1]

1. Greet people when you meet them

2. Make eye contact

3. Practice active listening. Give people your full attention.

4. Think before you speak in terms of your language and general tone and avoid interrupting others

5. Use polite language like "please" and "thank you"

6. Show genuine appreciation. Write thank you notes/emails for gifts and kind gestures

7. Practice kindness

8. Use little words to soften statements ("Sorry, I didn't quite catch that"; "I don't really like it I'm afraid"; "Can I just say something here?")

9. Use and remember people's names and remember little details about them

10. Be on time and respect people's time

11. Use the word "sorry" to soften language and quickly apologize when warranted ("Sorry, but can I just say something here"; "Sorry, but I don't really agree"; "Sorry, but I think that's out of the question")

12. Avoid gossip

13. Avoid accusatory language, while also respecting others' opinions/beliefs when possible and their personal boundaries (Avoid the "accusatory you" and instead put the focus on 'I' or 'we'.

For example according to the London School of English:

14. Have a positive attitude and smile more

Avoid gossip if you want to be more courteous.

Gossip by Charles Haigh-Wood (1854–1927)

Source: How to be more courteous

Source: How to be more courteous

Articles:

• How to have good manners in the U.S.
• 5 Tips for Polite and Diplomatic Language, London School of English
• 10 ways to be respectful, University of West London
• 12 Classic Rules of Etiquette We Can’t Afford to Lose

"Associate with men of good quality if you esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company." - George Washington

See also: Social intelligence and George Washington

When George Washington was a teenager, he wished to make a good impression on his elders. Good manners were important to him so he made sure that he knew how by copying Rules of Civility from a French rulebook in his own handwriting. The French book the Rules of Civility was a list of 110 rules for people to follow. These rules dealt with different situations, such as how to be respectful to people, how to be polite when dining with others, and how to behave.^[3]

Article:

• George Washington and the French book Rules of Civility

• Interpersonal relations
• Interpersonal skills
• Affability
• Agreeableness

• Study Love: Doth Not Behave Itself Unseemly, an analytical outline on "doth not behave itself unseemly" (οὐκ ἀσχημονεῖ), which is also translated "is not rude" (ICB, NCV) and "is not ill-mannered" (TEV), in 1 Cor. 13:5.