Children's Etiquette Handbook

Author: Zhou Yuxin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: 8. What are the basic principles to adhere to when implementing social etiquette? During a visit to the former Soviet Union, the renowned British playwright and Nobel Prize laureate George Bernard Shaw met a clever little girl and spent a long time playing with her. When parting, Shaw told the girl, "Go tell your mother that you played today with the famous George Bernard Shaw." The girl looked at Shaw and, imitating an adult's tone, said, "You should also go tell your mother that you played today with Soviet girl Anyina." This made Shaw realize how arrogant he had been and he deeply reflected, "No matter how great one's achievements may be, one should treat everyone equally. One must always remain humble—this is the lesson the Soviet girl taught me, and I will never forget her!" This illustrates how important it is to adhere to corresponding basic principles in interpersonal interactions. The fundamental principles of modern social etiquette serve as the basic guidelines for observing, analyzing, and handling conflicts and exchanges in interpersonal relationships. They permeate the entire process of social activities and play a continuous role. Therefore, exploring these implementation principles will undoubtedly help parents understand etiquette correctly and also improve their own etiquette qualities and the effectiveness of children's etiquette education. Practice has proven that in social interactions, the following basic etiquette implementation principles should be followed:
(1) The principle of respect and equality
Respect is the core and foundation of etiquette. Everyone desires to be valued by others, everyone has self-esteem, everyone has a sense of pride, and everyone has a natural affinity and sense of identity towards those who respect them. Treating others equally is the primary prerequisite and necessary condition for establishing good interpersonal relationships. Only by appearing with an attitude of equality and giving others full respect can harmonious and long-lasting interpersonal relationships be formed. Respecting others and treating them equally are closely related. To implement this etiquette principle, one must pay attention to:
● Establishing the concept of equality for all. Only on the basis of equality can mutual respect be achieved.
● Fulfilling others' desire for self-esteem. Put yourself in others' shoes and don't just consider things from your own perspective. Do not impose on others what you do not wish for yourself.
● Respecting others includes respecting their personality, abilities, interests, hobbies, and a series of other elements. Do not judge or force others based on your own likes and dislikes.
(2) The principle of tolerance and self-discipline
In interpersonal interactions, tolerance is a major manifestation of respecting others and is also a basic quality in handling affairs. One must allow others the freedom to act independently and make their own judgments. One must never be overly critical, meticulous, or pushy. Tolerating others also requires strict self-discipline. This is both a requirement for individuals and a foundation and starting point for implementing etiquette. Almost all people who are well-liked possess the qualities of being strict with themselves and tolerant of others. As a result, such people are more likely to earn the love and respect of others. P17-18