According to google, Etiquette is a customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a certain profession or group. It could be regarded as expressing acceptable behavior, observing good manners, showing courtesy, being polite, so far it results in doing what is right at the right time.
Many a time, good etiquette shows in our attitude, how we carry out our daily activities, tasks, and how we relate with people regardless of their age, size, gender, race, background, level of education, work status, sexuality, or even religious beliefs.
Education is often associated with good etiquette but it can be questioned. To what extent you may ask? Well, Education plays a vital role in the path to success, but education without values is a complete waste of time. According to one of the proverbial writings of William Horman, he stated that ‘Manners Maketh Man’ and that resonated more as a way of life and that good manners and being polite are essential to one’s humanity. Good manners will open doors that Education will not. Etiquette bridges the gap between education, actions, and behavior.
It is also one of the things that distinguish humans from animals. Humans have the ability to act based on intellect while animals are moved by their impulses. Etiquette gives humans the ability to subordinate impulses to create value. It makes us take responsibility for our actions, be willing to put others into consideration, and how our decisions affect people in society. This way we do not just appreciate ourselves but also respect people around us and their cultural values. An Etiquette professor once said “Treat people with politeness, not because they are nice but because you are. Rudeness is a weak man’s imitation of strength.”
As etiquette can be seen in our behavior, so can it also be applied in our lifestyle decisions; how we communicate, our fashion choices, appearance, general hygiene, and most importantly, our eating habits. A good example is a Dining Table, a place where proper etiquette must be applied. The way you eat defines the kind of person you are. It is said that a man is truly judged when he opens his mouth. The dining table is where true characters are revealed. Although majo0rity of the time, the eating technique is influenced by the type of food and its cultural background. The way a White man could have an omelet for breakfast using his cutlery is the same way a Black Nigerian man can have his ‘Semo and Ogbono soup’ using his hands. Another factor to conducting good table etiquette is the occasion. Is it a formal black-tie event or a casual occasion? Either way, provided that one is coordinated, and follows the guidelines for proper table etiquette. A key element is also having proper knowledge of the various types of cuisines, dishes, cutlery, glasses, napkin placement, how to pass the salt, proper sitting posture, respectful host treatment, and other potential possibilities one could be faced with in executing good table manners.
Etiquette means behaving yourself a little better than is absolutely expected – William Duffy.
Photo reference shutterstock_77075815.jpg (1000×453) (stoneward.com)00
Much ado about Etiquette 