What is courtesy? It’s simple! It’s thinking of and having respect for others.
Living in New York City is an experience like no other. Simply stated-it’s frenetic! Everything happens in the blink of an eye. For most people, their daily routines are static. They’d wake-up in the morning; get ready for work; prepare their children for school; commuter to work; take a one hour lunch break, typically eaten at their desks; return home; eat dinner; help the kids with homework and then prepare to do the same thing over again.
What’s missing from this equation? Time to stop, take a breath and engage in the small pleasantries of life.
How many mornings have you taken the elevator and didn’t say “Hello” to your neighbor?
How many times have you wished the bus driver, who you see everyday, a “Nice Day?”
When was the last time you told a friend, “Wow, you look great today?”
These actions are all examples of courtesy. In singularity, they may seem small but over time, they elevate one’s quality of life. Not only for the recipient but also for the giver. Studies have shown that helping others releases endorphins, our “feel good” hormones, which causes what is known as the “Helper’s High.”
(https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/high-octane-women/201409/helpers-high-the-benefits-and-risks-altruism)
Somehow, in our get more done in less time lifestyles, we’ve forgotten the simple things in life. Often, not intentionally, we just have too much on our minds.
So, here are a few suggestions of things that you can do on Common Courtesy Day.
12 Ways to Celebrate Common Courtesy Day:
- Say “Good Morning” to your neighbor
- Hold the door open for a stranger as you enter and exit a store
- Wish your bus driver a “Nice Day”
- Say “Thank You” to the cashier when she gives you your change at lunchtime
- Gentleman, on the train, give up your seat to a lady, elderly person or pregnant woman
- Give your parking spot to the next driver
- Offer to carry someone’s groceries
- Help an elderly person across the street
- When traveling to work, instead of talking on your cell phone, why not talk to your neighbor?
- When speaking to someone on public transportation, remember to use your indoor voice.
- Unless you are Patti LaBelle, don’t sing on public transportation
- Tell someone he or she looks nice
Of course, the simplest courtesy of all is to give someone a smile. Try it-it’s free!
In conclusion, to quote a good friend, “Make It A Great Day!”
