Unwritten Rules: Simple Yet Important Habits for a Better Life

 

Unwritten Rules: Simple Yet Important Habits for a Better Life

If you follow the many unsaid rules, life will run more smoothly, relationships will strengthen, and people will get along better. These are some of the most important:

General Etiquette & Respect

Put your phone away when you're talking to someone. It shows that you're paying attention and respecting them.

Two simple words can go a long way: please and thank you.

3. Hold the door open for the person behind you. This is an easy but kind thing to do.

4. Say thank you to someone who helps you. People like it when you say thanks.

5. Give people space—don't stand too close, especially if you don't know them.

6. Be honest: Don't ask for something you won't give. Being fair is essential.

7. Letting people get off a lift, bus, or train before getting on makes sense.

Social & Relationship Etiquette

8. Don't talk over someone else; let them finish their words.

9. If you're not complimenting someone, don't say anything about their weight or looks. It's rude and can hurt them.

10. If you take something, hand it back in the same (or better) shape as you got it. Also, don't forget to say thanks!

11. Text back if someone texts you; any answer is better than not answering.

12. Join someone in their happiness when they share good news, even if it doesn't affect you.

13. Don't tell anyone a secret that isn't yours. Trust is easy to lose.

14. Match the mood of the room. Don't be too loud in quiet places or too shy in social ones.

Work & Professionalism

15. Give credit where credit is due; thank people for their help.

16. Be on time. Treat other people's time carefully, just like you want yours to be treated.

17. Don't use all capital letters in emails or texts; it makes you look like you're yelling.

18. If you mess up, own it. People like it when you take responsibility.

19. Be the first person to take credit, not the last to help. Teamwork is important.

Public & Everyday Life

20. Clean up in a public or shared area, like at home, work, or public.

21. Replacing what you take if you take the last of it is polite.

22. Don't play loud music or talk on the phone in public; use headphones or turn it down.

23. Don't get on an elevator until everyone else has left. This will keep the tracks clear.

24. Let other cars merge into your lane; it won't slow you down much.

25. Don't take up more room than you need to, whether waiting, walking, or on the train.

Integrity & Character

26. Be honest, but don't be too honest. Being honest is important, but being kind is more important.

27. Don't always look better than other people; let other people have their turn.

When you mess up, say sorry. It doesn't make you weak; it makes you grow.

29. Be kind that you don't expect anything in return; genuine kindness is selfless.

30. Be the kind of person you'd want to be with. This is an easy rule that works for most things.