Manners matter
A few years ago I came across the manners manifesto. Here’s what the author, Andrew Collins, has to say about it:
it is within our gift as individuals to make the world a better place, especially the world immediately around us, by returning to – or a formalising the continuation of – good manners.
The reminder that the impact we have on our immediate environment is the start of something more widespread is an important point. If we want to change anything, we have to start at home. It reminds me of a really great post one of my former colleagues wrote on small goodnesses. It’s about how manners can be forgotten in the workplace and what we can do as individuals to challenge that.
You matter
As well as being kind to others, we really need to be kind to ourselves. Perhaps that’s where we should begin? If we cut ourselves some slack, maybe we’ll be more open to treating others with the same kindness. Here’s Angela Maier’s You Matter manifesto. She says it’s a call to action “to acknowledge and put to use the gifts that have been entrusted to you”. Go on, give it a go.
The image above by Bryan Mathers captures just one of the points on the You Matter manifesto. I believe it’s the clearest single reminder of why it’s so important for ourselves, and others, to be aware of the consequences of our actions.
Your manifesto
You can read my manifesto for acting in line with my values on my About page.
Do you have a set of principles that you work to? Are they open and shared? If not, what would be on your manifesto?
Featured image by Oliver Cole on Unsplash
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