COURTESY!!!....HOW IMPORTANT IS IT?

Showing courtesy to others is important, whether extending the courtesy to a friend, a co-worker, a family member or a stranger. With today’s hectic lifestyles, over-scheduled days and jam-packed weekends, it is sometimes easy to overlook basic common courtesy in the hurry

to get everything done.

1. Respect personal space

Everyone needs some personal space, some more than others. Whether sharing a room with a sibling or a college roommate, or sharing work space with co-workers, always respect each person’s space, possessions and need for privacy.

2. Respect common space

If sharing common facilities with others such as kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms, be responsible and don’t abuse your privileges. Clean the kitchen and bathroom areas after using them and always remove your laundry from the washer or dryer so the next person doesn’t have to do it.

3. Share the conversation

When talking with others, try not to monopolize the conversation or talk about yourself too much. Give everyone a chance to talk, especially anyone who may be shy. Be a good listener as well as a talker. Whether you are at an event or entertaining in your own home, avoid controversial subjects. Don’t let conversations get out of hand or make other guests uncomfortable.

4. Always call first

Always call ahead if planning on visiting someone at home rather than dropping in unexpectedly. Most people really appreciate a heads up when company is expected so they can get themselves and their homes in company-ready condition.

5. Always RSVP

When invited to a function, whether formal or informal, always RSVP when requested. It is a simple courtesy and allows the host to get a handle on how many people to expect, how much food to prepare and how many chairs to set out. Avoid responding at the last minute and don’t respond with a “maybe.” If you won’t know your availability until the last minute, be sure to let the host know that. Also, always ask your host what you can bring.

6. Arrive on time

Always arrive on time for an event, especially if a specific time frame is given for dinner. If the invite is an informal open house event, the arrival and departure times are more flexible. Also, don't overstay your welcome and hang around after everyone else has gone home.

7. Don’t bring extras

Never bring extra guests, including your own children, to an event without checking first with the host. Many events are “adult only” and children are not invited. Don’t take the “no children” policy personally and don’t lay a guilt trip on the host. If you can’t find a babysitter, graciously decline the invitation.

8. Be a courteous shopper

Grocery shopping, like driving, can bring out the worst in people, especially if the checkout lines are long and slow. Don’t cut in front of others and refrain from making rude remarks. Do your part to move things along. Have your cash, checkbook or credit card ready. If using coupons, have them organized before you get in line. If you are the impatient type, consider shopping during the week to avoid the busy weekends.

9. Be a good neighbor

While you don’t have to be best friends with your neighbors, it benefits everyone when the relationship is courteous and friendly. Always respect property boundaries, follow common sense rules such as no loud music at night, and offer a supportive hand when your neighbor needs it.

10. Be a courteous driver

 Avoid aggressive driving and road rage. Screaming, beeping your horn, cutting people off, or throwing obscene gestures at drivers and pedestrians is not good for your blood pressure and can also cause a serious accident. Also, always line up a designated driver or friend for those times when you plan on drinking alcohol at an event. This is the most important of the common courtesies, as other peoples’ lives are at stake if you drink and drive. 

Take turns with your friends as the designated driver or hire a driver so everyone can enjoy a few drinks at the party.

Common courtesy is important. It is necessary for establishing and maintaining successful relationships, whether personal, professional or casual. Common courtesy comes with benefits. It makes living and working with others more doable and pleasant, and creates good feelings for everyone involved.