These easy everyday rules make the world a little bit more pleasant.

Growing up, we’re taught about the Golden Rule, waiting your turn, and otherimportant etiquette guidelines.

Here are a few common courtesy rules all Southerners should keep in mind.

Two young women talking in living room

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Don’t forget to bring a small host gift, like a bottle of wine, with you.

Whenever possible, make it a point to learn someone’s first name.

“It makes others feel special,” she explains.

“Be mindful of the footprint that you bring into the office.

Don’t schlep all of your stuff in.

When you’re in the restroom, don’t overdo it with primping in the mirror.

Just remember, it’s not your home away from home; it’s a place of business.

Respect the workspace,” Swann says.

“It’s important to speak kindly about others and to protect your character.

Participating in gossip isn’t a power move.

Gossip isn’t an asset to your life,” she says.

She also encourages you to be mindful of excessive complaining and negative talk while at work.

This means if you’re asked to wear certain attire, do so whenever possible.

Travel and Commute Politely

The second you leave your home, a world of manners awaits.

Even though casual wear is prevalent in most environments, there is a positive psychological association to dressing up.

You feel better and present yourself more confidently when you look your best.

“It’s essential to take advantage of in-person connections,” Johnson says.

This means putting your phone away when you’re spending time with loved ones or colleagues in person.

While were on the phone subject, we have to talk about volume.

If youre not on a reality television show, theres no need to use speaker phone in public.

These efforts are all about being considerate of others around you and examining your own self-awareness.

There is no need to make excuses.

A good host knows to always have a selection of beverages, alcoholic and nonalcoholic, at the ready.

But at busy fast-food and fast-casual spots, theres not a dedicated waiter for immediate service.

You should throw away your garbage and wipe up any obvious spills when you’re done, Overdeep says.

The same goes for hotel rooms, which are sadly often treated like fraternity houses.

Not everyone likes dogs and wants them in their home or yard, Overdeep says.

I think some dog owners assume everyone loves their pet as much as they do.

Cough With Care

We all know that COVID changed how we live and interact.

There was even a time when people thought handshakes might go extinct.

Its a courtesy to always ask before posting and tagging another person, Gottsman says.

This is especially important when children are involved.