The Lost Art of Courtesy

Heavy traffic, jam-packed shopping malls, long lines to see Santa, irritatingly slow service, mall kiosk vendors making their pitch... It sounds like Christmas is just around the corner! If you're anything like me, the holidays are not the time of year my most courteous side shows. Manners seem to be a thing of the past and even more so with all the holiday inconveniences. Isn't it supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year?

And wouldn't it be wonderful to walk through those crowded malls hearing, "pardon me, please" and "thank you, I appreciate that." Wouldn't it be nice to see doors being held open for mothers wrangling children and strollers? Wouldn't a salesperson enjoy even one smile and a thank you for services rendered? Well, it all starts at home.

Give the gift of MASS courtesy to your fellow man this holiday season:

Model the behavior. Have you heard the old saying, "what goes around comes around?" Why not send around good manners? I've discovered that the more polite I am, the more polite others are. A smile begets a smile. Pay it forward, so to speak. Granted, some will still take advantage of your courtesy and not return it, but don't let them dissuade you.

Allow extra time. If you know in advance that the streets are heavy with traffic or the malls are extra busy, plan more time. That will keep your stress levels under control and that, in turn, helps you remain courteous. Good time management is a great trait to have during the holidays and will allow you to enjoy the season even more.

Stop to help. Someone drops a package, a child lost her parents, a store clerk drops a box of supplies...don't let these opportunities to help pass you by. Offer politely to help and start doing so. You'll not only make the other person's day, but you will find a sense of fulfillment.

Surprise a salesperson. Retail salespeople not only work long hours during the holidays but they also bear the brunt of the anger from consumers. Don't blame the store clerk for a defective toy. Politely explain situations and if you can't get it resolved, request to speak with a manager. Thanking a weary salesperson, instead of complaining about the long wait, can truly lift his or her spirits.

It is so easy to disregard other people's feelings especially in a sea of unfamiliar faces. Try to remember to treat each person you come into contact with as you would want to be treated. You'll be amazed how far a smile and a little bit of courtesy can take you. Happy Holidays!