Cutting people short in conversation:
Everyone wants to be listened to, just like you do. Allow people to say what they want to say, whether or not what they are saying makes sense to you. Listen to the end, then talk only after they are done and it is your turn.
Picking the nose in public:
This a common habit, done by almost everyone, even men of valor. Instead of using bare fingers to pick the nose, take a handkerchief or dry pocket tissue. Though no rule is set regarding this, it is a good habit. Yes, it is your nose and you are using your own fingers, so why should anyone bother about that? Sometimes we have to shake hands, take a bite, using the same hands and it is healthy if the hands are clean. Think about it.
Talking with food in the mouth:
This is so disgusting. It is a good table manner to first chew, swallow food before talking. Talking while eating could cause one to be chocked at times, or an uninvited cough could result and the picture is not pleasant. We could also end up splashing food particles to those sitting close by simply because we laughed uncontrollably while chewing food. It is possible to eat decently.
Coughing with uncovered mouth:
Occasionally, a sneeze gets us unprepared and this is understandable. It is however advisable to cover our mouths when coughing. Let the people around be comfortable. This could also be helpful in cases of chronic diseases like TB. It is wise to kindly ask people to cover their mouths when coughing, than pay the price of a germ transmittable by air.
Messing up the washroom:
Don’t be surprised, but funny people exist. People who use the washroom and leave the mess for other people to clean. I am sure this is not you, but you have met a messy toilet before and wondered who on earth…
It really counts, leave the toilet as clean, or better than you found it if you can.
Assume you are the next person using the washroom, leave it as you would love to find it!
Practice, others will imitate, let the good habits spread.
By Liz Ekakoro:Diaspora Messenger contributor
