Manners Improvement

If you are anywhere there is a large group of people, two types of people will stand out every time. One is the well-mannered people, and the other is the people who are not. Where they both equally stand out, they cause two very different reactions. Well-mannered people attract us. We feel safe around them, and we think they will treat us right. Rude people repel us. They make us think they will embarrass us, and we do all we can to avoid them. Now the tough question, which one are you?

Few people will say they are rude. We all like to think we are well mannered in public. Here are some things a person lacking in manners may do: tell off-colored jokes, be loud and strive to get attention, speak badly of others so others can hear, use the excuse, “this is just who I am, so take it or leave it.” Scouts and Scouters know that to be courteous is something you do; it is not excused by who you are. Manners are actions, and we chose to do them. Making that choice in itself is showing good manners.

“I seek constantly to improve my manners and graces,

 for they are the sugar to which all are attracted.”

Og Mandino

1923-1996

Author

The German poet and novelist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said, “A man’s manners are a mirror in which he shows his portrait.” Scouts can see who they are by how they behave. Being well mannered is not a stuffy and restrictive thing. Well-mannered people can be the life of the party; however, they know the limits of good behavior. Things like off-color jokes, gossip, and making fun of others are never acceptable. Well-mannered people are polite, kind, and encouraging to all.

So how can a Scout develop the quality of being well mannered? One very definite way is to associate with other well-mannered Scouts and Scouters. Stanley Walker said, “Associate with well-mannered persons and your manners will improve. Run around with decent folks, and your decent instincts will be strengthened.” We have talked of this principle over and over because it is so crucial to your success. If you want to be a Scout who has good manners, works hard and succeeds in life, then associate with those who already do that. The people we spend our time with will be the people we become, good or bad, it always works.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey