Etiquette resolutions for 2020

We all have new year resolutions, which some of us follow throughout while some fail to keep up. It's always good to be optimistic when it comes to keeping a resolution. Here are some etiquette resolutions for 2020.
Simple kindness: 'Please', 'Thank You' and 'I am sorry' are magical words. I made a conscious effort a few years ago to make these a lifestyle choice. Which means, I use them whenever needed with everyone. It's a fulfilling experience to offer simple words of kindness to everyone around you, without discrimination.
*When I give my car to a valet, I make eye contact with the parking attendant and simply smile and say thank you. You get a beautiful smile and gratitude in return.
*When I ask for my car and give the parking tag, I say 'please' and mention their name. They always have a nameplate on the pocket.
* "I am sorry" - three simple words spoken sincerely can resolve many conflicts. I've noticed that not a lot of people offer apologies easily. Offering a sincere apology is a sign of credibility and competence.
Pay compliments: It's a beautiful way to practise kindness. Paying sincere compliments is an art. How you phrase the compliment is interesting, though. For example, if you meet a friend and think she looks slimmer, instead of saying, "Babe, you lost weight, you look good," say something like, "You look fit and athletic, you look great!" Sincerity is the key while paying compliments. Keep it short and relevant.
Dining etiquette at home: One doesn't need to be in a Michelin star set-up to practise dining etiquette. It should be practised at home. Eating is sustenance, but dining is an experience. It's a great way to bond with family members over a meal. Though it's often a challenge to find time to spend with our immediate family, just making an effort to dine together in a nicely set up dining table with home-cooked meal is a great way to bond as a family. Also, it's a good way to teach children dining etiquette.
Being approachable: Snobbish behaviour is an etiquette faux pas. Real sophistication is in humility. Being approachable shows our values, upbringing and, surprisingly, our confidence. Snooty mannerisms or social arrogance is a sign of insecurity. It's a beautiful quality. If you see most prominent world leaders or prominent entrepreneurs, even movie stars, the more successful one is the more humble s/he is.
Handwritten note: Although it's a dying art, one would agree that no material gift is more valuable than receiving a beautiful handwritten note. Writing Christmas cards, New Year wishes or just a note of appreciation is a beautiful way to show your love. Invest in personalised stationery that will make you more inclined to write a note for your loved ones. Rather than sending an Instagram DM to your girlfriend, try a handwritten note.
I wish you all a happy & prosperous new year. Till next week #beextraordinary
wknd@khaleejtimes.com