Why is No One Polite Anymore?

Have you noticed that people don’t care anymore? They want what they want and don’t give a sh*t about the consequences. Am I oversimplifying this problem? Or is it even a problem? Maybe people aren’t any more rude now than in the past. I just feel it more these days.

Is Rudeness a Thing? Worse Than Ever?

This Reddit thread says yes! One poster blamed post-Covid for people’s decline in basic manners. And another cited economic uncertainty.

Sure, the economy has added to my anxiety, but I try to be polite to people and not take my frustration out on random strangers!

Could it be that as a society, we have become more self-centered? I have noticed that friendships have gone by the wayside. As the years go by, my social circle shrinks exponentially.

According to this Psychology Today article, I am not imagining things. As countries become more economically developed there is a rise in individualism:

“More affluence leads to a greater sense of self-reliance and a detachment from others.”

Dr. Ronald Reggio adds that social media may be partly to blame as well:

“Social media, while it connects us to others, may actually lead to greater self-centeredness as people strive to make their “presence” known. Much of social media is “all about me.”

I have also noticed rudeness online is at an all time high. Sitting anonymously behind a computer screen makes it easier to write things that you would not dare say in public.

How Do You Refine Your Manners and Demand the Same From Others?

This article explains why etiquette is so important:

“Etiquette provides a framework for courteous and respectful behaviour, which can help prevent misunderstandings, conflicts, and social awkwardness. It also creates a sense of decorum and professionalism in social and professional settings.”

The author explains basic manners like putting your phone away and being punctual, but also important is becoming a good listener:

“Pay attention to what people are saying and show interest in their opinions. Avoid interrupting or dominating the conversation. Also, be respectful and considerate of other people’s opinions.“

I can’t agree more. It seems so obvious, but we can all use a lesson in listening. Maybe if we listened more and really considered what those around us are thinking and feeling, we might focus more on others and less on ourselves.

It doesn’t mean you should be a door mat and let people walk all over you. There is a happy medium. Being kind and considerate is completely different from being taken advantage of.

Yes, we have all been burned by people. But that doesn’t mean you should keep your wall up forever. Lately, I have been trying to say something kind to someone everyday. It actually works!

I see someone’s face light up and that brightens my day. I don’t engage in long conversations with strangers or anything, but I might talk a little longer to the girl behind the counter at Dunkin(as long as there is no one behind me!) A kind word, even a smile can make a difference.

I used to love sending Christmas cards every year. But now I don’t receive any so I don’t bother. Instead, I send cards to people sporadically for no reason.

If you don‘t like snail mail, an email to someone you haven’t talked to in a while might brighten their day.

Remember, it doesn’t have to be much. But I feel like if we begin to connect a little more to people, our manners will improve and everyone benefits.

Yes, everyone is busier than ever simply trying to make ends meet. But a few minutes a day to send a not to someone saying something like, “Just checking in. Haven’t talked to you in a while. Hope you’re doing well,” is all you need to do.