Social Wellbeing

The Feeling of Etiquette

You may be pretty adept at hosting houseguests, but perhaps you can add a little something extra for your next round of visitors. You may not travel a lot, but the next time you do, we’ll give you a new tool for in your kit. You might be pretty on top of family birthdays, but why not add a special anniversary to the list of cards being sent! These hints and more are highlighted below to help you be well on your way to making those around you feel special, appreciated and valued.

The Challenge

Review each of the areas identified. Take note of one thing from each area that you would like to start implementing.

When you hear the word etiquette, visions of ornately dressed Victorian women having tea may pop into your head, or maybe your grandmother scolding you for chewing with your mouth open. For me, it is so much different, etiquette isn’t something I picture in my head but more of a feeling you want to instill in others. When I have guests in my home I want them to feel welcome and comfortable, when I travel I am thinking of my impact on others’ travel experience as well as my own, in my day to day life I use my agenda as a tool to remind me of events ahead of time so I don’t forget to send a card to important people in my life. I like to think most human beings are caring considerate people, etiquette helps show that you care about others through simple gestures. These are what I want to share with you, simple ways you can make others feel welcome in your space—wherever that may.

Guests

Here are some simple tips I have for hosting overnight guest:

• Place water bottles/snack size bag of pretzels on night stands

• Fresh flowers in bedroom

• Place folded towels/washcloths on bed

• Ask ahead of time if guests have any favorite beverages/food items

• Place a little basket of travel sized items in the bathroom

Of course none of this is necessary, but by doing these simple things it will make your guests feel that you are excited to have them stay with you. It gives a sense that you were anticipating their visit, and that you are not at all put out by them staying with you.

Travel

Traveling can be a very trying time; people are overtired and stressed. Here are some travel etiquette tips to help you and those around you make the experience as pleasant as possible:

• It is good manners to make the bed each day, most maid services will FULLY make the bed but it makes their lives a bit easier

• Leave tip on nightstand at the end of your stay at a hotel

• Customary to tip bellman

• For moving walkway in an airport: walk on the left, stand to the right. If you encounter someone standing on the left be polite, there is no need to be rude or to correct them

• On a flight, the middle seats gets arm rests

• It is technically bad manners to recline your seat, if you feel that you must, turn around and say to the person behind you, “Excuse me, would you mind if I recline this just a little?” and then do so. Just a little!

Another little piece of advice, if you see someone struggling with their luggage at baggage claim (or an overhead bin), offer to help them. Don’t worry about being awkward or creeping them out. If they are creeped out that’s on them not on you. People will see your kindness and say “Hey, that is cool I want to be kind too, let me help with this person’s bag!” It might happen!

General Gratitude and Kindness

Nothing is more in fashion than showing your appreciation for those around you. This year I’ve started implemented a few things to keep this at the forefront of my mind.

Important Dates

I take an hour and pour over my calendar making sure to note the important dates—from birthdays to anniversaries, weddings and anything in between--that I believe to be of utmost importance. Once identified, I count back two weeks from the date and make a note to myself to put a card in the mail. It is really enjoyable going to the store to pick out cards for each person you are sending them to and writing a personalized note for them. The people receiving your notes will truly enjoy them as well.

*note: before tossing your planner at the end of the year, be sure to transfer your important dates!

Monday Musings

The end of the weekend and start of the workweek can feel like a drag. A good dose of gratitude can help lighten the mood. In your calendar, jot two simple words: thank you. This will serve as a reminder for you to consider anyone for whom you need to write a note of thanks. For me personally, there have been a lot more opportunities to write thank you notes every week. Even if it is to my mom for babysitting over the weekend. A handwritten thank you note detailing why you are thankful for the person can be much more meaningful than expressing it verbally.

Tools Needed

An agenda or calendar of some sort. You will also need a pen and some thank you notes and greeting cards!

Get Together

Let your sisters know about this Wellbeing Challenge and invite them to participate!

Plan a fun night and make some greeting cards together! Just gather some cardstock, pretty pens and some embellishments and you’ve saved yourself a bundle over buying the gorgeous

Report Participation

Document your participation in A Clear Vision of Life: The Wellbeing Program and be entered to win a challenge incentive! Click here to let us know you participated in this challenge.

About the Author: Emily Krawzyk is an alumna of the Beta Lambda Chapter at Penn State University. She has a BA in Art History and a Higher Certificate in International Etiquette and Protocol from Institut Villa Pierrefeu. Emily is a former Area Facilitator and currently implements Etiquette Training to the Alpha Xi Delta Travel Team. She resides in Pennsylvania with her husband, Nathan and Rose Petal, Caroline. She enjoys a good podcast and is a BRAVO TV enthusiast.