Rules of Civilty

After reading a poignant op-ed in the New York Times, I thought I would share some advice from none-other than George Washington. One of my favorite presidents, George Washington was a great, respected leader. We could use more of those in this day and age.

The Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation was created by George Washington while he was still in school as a writing exercise. I will post the first ten, but you can find the rest of the 110 rules here. Perhaps they will help when you are seeking a job if your civility knowledge need refreshing.

• 1st Every Action done in Company, ought to be with Some Sign of Respect, to those that are Present.

• 2d When in Company, put not your Hands to any Part of the Body, not usually Discovered.

• 3d Shew Nothing to your Friend that may affright him.

• 4th In the Presence of Others Sing not to yourself with a humming Noise, nor Drum with your Fingers or Feet.

• 5th If You Cough, Sneeze, Sigh, or Yawn, do it not Loud but Privately; and Speak not in your Yawning, but put Your handkercheif or Hand before your face and turn aside.

• 6th Sleep not when others Speak, Sit not when others stand, Speak not when you Should hold your Peace, walk not on when others Stop.

• 7th Put not off your Cloths in the presence of Others, nor go out your Chamber half Drest.

• 8th At Play and at Fire its Good manners to Give Place to the last Commer, and affect not to Speak Louder than Ordinary.

• 9th Spit not in the Fire, nor Stoop low before it neither Put your Hands into the Flames to warm them, nor Set your Feet upon the Fire especially if there be meat before it.

• 10th When you Sit down, Keep your Feet firm and Even, without putting one on the other or Crossing them.