Social norms and behaviors constantly change, reflecting shifts in our collective values and understandings. Certain practices, however, have worn out their welcome due to their negative impacts on individuals and communities, just like these 20 unacceptable social norms that should be gone for good.
Using Phones in Social Gatherings
Just as Huff Post rants angrily, there’s something not right about using your phone while in the company of others. It’s rude and dismissive, signaling a lack of interest and respect for the people present. Social interactions are invaluable, so it’s crucial that we stay present to cherish them.
Not Respecting Personal Space in Public
It’s a basic social right to have personal space, and that should be respected. Crowding someone in a queue or a public transport setting makes people uncomfortable and anxious. It’s time we all acknowledged this and gave each other plenty of room to breathe.
Littering
Sadly, there are people out there who still litter. Littering is not only an environmental hazard but also plain selfish, showing a complete lack of respect for both the environment and the people who use shared spaces. Everyone should take responsibility for keeping their surroundings clean.
Interrupting Others
It will never not be rude to interupt someone when they are speaking. It completely dismisses their thoughts and contributions to the contribution, and everyone deserves to be heard fully. So, try to be more of an active listener, ignoring your urges to interrupt.
Ignoring RSVPs
Failing to respond to invitations creates unnecessary confusion for the host, and it’s incredibly rude, too. It doesn’t matter whether your response is a yes or a no; a quick response is always appreciated and shows basic respect and appreciation for the efforts of the host.
Overuse of Plastic Bags
Many people have switched to reusable bags to help rid the environment of plastic waste, yet just as many ignore this modern social norm. There are ample reusable options that are both practical and environmentally friendly, so making the switch to reusable bags is effortless–there’s no excuse not to.
Wearing Inappropriate Attire to Events
When attending an event, it’s polite to dress appropriately as a basic form of respect for the occasion and its participants. Stick to dress codes, consider the nature of the event when choosing what to wear, and definitely don’t overdress at risk of outdoing the host.
Not Offering Seats to Those in Need
On public transport, not offering your seat to the elderly, pregnant, or those with disabilities is a habit that needs to end. It’s a basic act of kindness that can make a significant difference in someone’s day, so be kind and give up your seat to those in need.
Joking About Sensitive Topics
Making light of serious issues such as mental health, race, or personal tragedies is harmful, and frankly, there’s nothing funny about it at all. These jokes can feed stereotypes and cause discomfort to those around you, so be mindful of the topics you joke about in social settings.
Failing to Control Pets in Public
Most people love animals, but that’s no reason to let your pet misbehave in public spaces. Uncontrolled pets can cause disturbances and even pose safety risks to others, so practice basic responsible pet ownership, such as training your pets and keeping them on a leash when in public.
Ghosting
A common act of disrespect nowadays is ‘ghosting,’ which means disappearing without explanation, especially in personal or professional relationships. It’s become very common in digital forms of communication, and it’s disrespectful and hurtful, so open communication, even if it’s to end a connection, will always be a better option.
Parking Incorrectly
Taking up two spaces or parking inconsiderately not only causes inconvenience for others but it shows a complete disregard for them. It’s plain selfish; proper parking etiquette is simple to follow and makes shared spaces more functional and accessible for everyone, so think about others, not just yourself.
Skipping Lines
Anyone who cuts in line will be quick to receive a dirty look, and quite rightly. Skipping queues shows a complete lack of respect for other people who have been waiting. Everyone’s time is valuable, so waiting your turn is a fundamental aspect of courteous behavior.
Overpacking Elevators
Next time you’re waiting for an elevator, be careful not to enter when it’s already full. Overloading elevators is unsafe and inconsiderate to the personal space of others, so just wait for the next one or take an earlier opportunity to board, ensuring safety and comfort for everyone.
Sharing Misinformation
These days, fake news and other forms of misinformation plague the internet, so be careful not to contribute to this. Spreading unverified information can cause unnecessary panic and harm, so it’s crucial to fact-check and consider the reliability of your sources before sharing information, especially on social media.
Not Acknowledging Work Emails
Just like ghosting, ignoring work emails, especially those requiring a speedy response disrupts workflows and creates barriers, ruining communication. It’s just not necessary; prompt and professional replies should be the standard in all work-related communications, even if it’s not a pleasant email.
Smoking in Non-smoking Areas
One of the nastiest social practices that people still do is smoking, where it’s prohibited. Not only does this violate rules unnecessarily, but it also endangers the health of non-smokers, forcing them to be surrounded by cancerous smoke. It’s completely inconsiderate, so just use smoking areas.
Leaving Lights On Unnecessarily
Not only is leaving lights on when you’re not using them a waste of money, but it’s also terrible for the environment. Turning them off will make zero difference to your life, but the benefits that this will have on the environment (and your electricity bill) are huge.
Misusing Handicapped Accessibilities
Facilities designed for disabled individuals should always be respected and left available for those who truly need them. Misusing these resources, such as using disabled bathrooms or parking in handicapped spaces without a permit, can significantly impact the quality of life for those with disabilities, so just don’t.
Not Covering During Sneezing or Coughing
Even children are aware that you should cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, yet so many adults don’t do it. This spreads germs unnecessarily, and no one wants to be around that, so don’t be gross–cover your mouth accordingly.
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