16 Old fashioned Manners Past Generations Were Taught As Children

source: iStock Photo/George Marks

In the past, manners were highly valued, and parents made sure to instill them in their children from a young age. These manners were not just about being polite, but they were seen as a reflection of a person’s character and upbringing. While some of these old-fashioned manners may seem outdated to today’s society, they are still worth considering and could benefit us in many ways.

Saying “Please” and “Thank You”

In the past, children were taught to say “please” and “thank you” as a basic courtesy. This simple gesture of gratitude not only showed respect to the person, but it also expressed appreciation for their actions. Today, saying these words has become less common and often forgotten, but it can make a significant difference in how people perceive us.

Holding Doors Open

Holding doors open for others was once a common practice and a sign of respect. Men were taught to hold doors open for women and elderly people. Today, this practice has been replaced by automatic doors and a general lack of consideration for others. However, holding the door open for someone can make them feel acknowledged and appreciated.

Covering Your Mouth When You Cough or Sneeze

Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze was an essential part of good manners in the past. This practice not only showed respect for others, but it also helped prevent the spread of germs. Today, with the COVID-19 pandemic, this practice has become more important than ever.

Asking Permission

In the past, children were taught to ask permission before doing something or taking someone else’s property. This practice was seen as a way to show respect for others and their belongings. Today, with a culture of entitlement, people often take things without asking or assume that they have the right to do something without permission. Asking permission can prevent misunderstandings and show that we value other people’s opinions.

Dressing Appropriately

In the past, people were expected to dress appropriately for different occasions. This meant dressing up for formal events and wearing more casual attire for everyday activities. Today, people often dress in whatever is comfortable or convenient, regardless of the occasion. Dressing appropriately shows respect for the people and the occasion.

Waiting Your Turn

In the past, children were taught to wait their turn and not interrupt others while they were speaking. This practice was seen as a way to show respect for others and their ideas. Today, with a culture of instant gratification and social media, people often interrupt others or speak over them. Waiting your turn shows respect for others and can lead to more productive and meaningful conversations.

Making Eye Contact

In the past, people were taught to make eye contact when speaking with others. This practice showed that you were listening and engaged in the conversation. Today, with the prevalence of smartphones and other distractions, people often look down or away while speaking with others. Making eye contact shows that you are present in the moment and value the other person’s time and perspective.

Using Proper Table Manners

In the past, children were taught to use proper table manners, such as keeping their elbows off the table, using a napkin, and not talking with food in their mouth. These practices showed respect for others and the mealtime experience. Today, with fast food and eating on the go, people often forget or neglect proper table manners. Using proper table manners can enhance the dining experience and show respect for others.

Apologizing When You’re Wrong

In the past, children were taught to apologize when they were wrong or made a mistake. This practice showed humility and respect for others. Today, with a culture of defensiveness and blame-shifting, people often refuse to apologize or admit fault. Apologizing when you’re wrong shows that you are willing to take responsibility for your actions and can lead to more positive relationships.

Using Polite Titles and Forms of Address

In the past, people were expected to use polite titles and forms of address when speaking with others, such as “Sir” or “Madam.” This practice showed respect for others and their position or status. Today, with a culture of informality, people often use first names or casual language, even with those they don’t know well. Using polite titles and forms of address shows respect for others and can help establish more professional and respectful relationships.

Saying “Excuse Me” and “I’m Sorry”

In the past, children were taught to say “excuse me” when they needed to get past someone or interrupt a conversation, and “I’m sorry” when they made a mistake or accidentally hurt someone’s feelings. These phrases were seen as important ways to show consideration and respect for others. Today, people may be quick to push past others or ignore when they have hurt someone, but saying “excuse me” and “I’m sorry” can help to maintain courteous and compassionate interactions.

Offering Assistance

In the past, people were expected to offer assistance when they saw someone in need, such as helping carry heavy objects, holding a door, or offering to drive someone to an appointment. This practice demonstrated kindness and consideration for others. Today, people may be hesitant to offer help or may simply not notice when someone is struggling. Offering assistance can make a positive impact on someone’s day and help to build a sense of community.

Being Punctual

In the past, people were expected to be punctual for appointments and events. Being on time showed that you valued the other person’s time and were dependable. Today, people may arrive late or cancel plans at the last minute, which can be frustrating and disrespectful. Being punctual can demonstrate professionalism and reliability, and help to build positive relationships.

Listening Carefully

In the past, people were taught to listen carefully when someone was speaking to them. This practice demonstrated respect and attention for the other person’s ideas and feelings. Today, people may be distracted by phones, other people, or their own thoughts, and may not give their full attention to the conversation. Listening carefully can help to build stronger connections with others and foster more meaningful interactions.

Using Proper Phone Etiquette

In the past, people were taught to use proper phone etiquette, such as answering the phone promptly, speaking clearly and politely, and not interrupting or speaking over others. This practice demonstrated consideration and respect for others on the phone. Today, with the prevalence of texting and social media, people may be less skilled in phone etiquette or may simply not prioritize it. Using proper phone etiquette can help to maintain professional and respectful relationships.

Expressing Gratitude

In the past, people were taught to express gratitude when someone did something kind or helpful for them. This practice demonstrated appreciation and thankfulness. Today, people may take things for granted or may not express gratitude as often as they should. Expressing gratitude can help to build positive relationships and foster a sense of connection and goodwill.

The old-fashioned manners that past generations were taught as children are still relevant today. These manners were not just about being polite, but they were a reflection of a person’s character and upbringing. Incorporating these manners into our daily lives can improve our interactions with others and show respect for their feelings and well-being. While some of these old-fashioned manners may seem outdated or unnecessary, they can still have a significant impact on how we are perceived and how we interact with others.