Always and Never

There are things in life that people should try to always and never do and manners applies to both.  Having manners and showing respect to others ultimately says that you care enough to present yourself well, thusly manners are very much integral to your bella figura.  Presenting yourself as a lady or gentleman seems almost lost in today's world; almost like people don't have the extra time to be nice or considerate.  Manners don't take much, just a little thought and practise, until they become habit and don't require any thought at all because they flow naturally.

Whilst reading a few etiquette books, I started thinking about what I consider to be things people should always or never do.  Several of them centred around the dining table, a place ripe with chances to be gross, as well as some things that I think are just little reminders for life in general.  So, the Always and the Never are subdivided into 'At the Table' and 'Life'.  If I've missed anything let me know! Add to my lists, please and thank you.

Ready set.

Always at the Table

Use a napkin.
Push your chair in when exiting the table.
Let someone know when they have food in their teeth. Best if discreet so as to not embarrass.

Always In Life

RSVP
Say please and thank you.
Hold open a door for others.
Let people exit the elevator before getting on.
Remove your shoes when in someone else's home.
Bless someone when they sneeze.
Be on time.
Think before you speak when you're angry.
Try to be a good listener.
Say thank you when complimented. Respond in kind if you're sincere about it.
Treat others the way you want to be treated. Put that good karma out there.

Never at the Table

Chew with your mouth open. It's disgusting.
Talk with your mouth full. It's so disgusting.
Slurp anything. Ever. Soup, coffee, spaghetti. Just don't. EVER.
Allow air to exit your body. Excuse yourself and go to the washroom.
Use your fingers instead of a utensil.
Place your elbows on the table. Arms belong on your lap.

Never In Life

Interrupt someone when they are talking. I know you're excited but just wait your turn.
Show up to someone's home empty handed, especially when invited over for a meal. Wine, flowers, a small appetizer, chocolates, something for the host as a thank-you.
Eat while talking on the phone. Especially while conducting business.
Use your cell phone while having a face-to-face conversation with someone. This behaviour blatantly tells the other person you're not interested in them, and that you're a jerk. The only exception is Googling something that adds to your discussion.
Be deliberately mean or rude. Take the high road, always.

Hope you enjoyed. Thank you for stopping by!
Jessica :)