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Gym Etiquette: 10 Ways to Exercise Your Manners While Working Out

January 4, 2012

Gym etiquette tips

At this time of year, more than ever, fitness centers are filled with people determined to get back into a healthy routine.

For gym-goers who haven’t been in a while, or who are new to working out, here are a few simple etiquette guidelines that will make your experience, and your fellow gym-goers experience, more enjoyable.

  1. Flex a little consideration. Replace weights and set equipment back to the lowest setting after use and never let weights drop after exertion.
  2. Watch your time. Most gyms have a 20-25 minute limit on cardio equipment. Play within the limit.
  3. No sweat. Carry a personal sweat towel and wipe down the equipment with product provided by the gym after each use.
  4. Dress the part. Save your flip-flops for the beach. Proper fitness shoes are a must, as is proper exercise clothing and gear. Leave your belly button ring at home and choose a top that covers your navel—and pants that cover your “you know what!”
  5. Safety first. Use a spotter for challenging weight lifting moves.
  6. Take turns. Let someone else have an opportunity to use the machine while you’re recovering from your set.
  7. Save your breath. You’ll get the most from your workout if you avoid distractions—and so will those around you. Be courteous and keep your phone in your bag while you’re on the gym floor. Note: If you’re able to talk easily while exercising, you may not be exerting enough effort!
  8. Use common sense when it comes to scents. Not everyone will enjoy your particular perfume—some may even be allergic—so when in close quarters, like the gym, keep it clean and fresh. Save the perfume for after your workout.
  9. Be aware of personal space. If you’re participating in an aerobics or any other group class, always be aware of where your classmates are situated. This is to avoid collisions and to respect personal boundaries.
  10. Exercise patience. If someone is using the machine you’re waiting for, instead of hovering over him, find another piece of equipment to use or take a water break while you wait.

By exercising your “gym manners muscle,” you show consideration and confidence. Bring these characteristics to every work out and enjoy yourself!

What are your biggest gym-time pet peeves?

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Posted by Margaret in Everyday Etiquette and tagged ,

100 Accomplishments for 2011

December 22, 2011

setting your goals for 2012

This is the time of year when people start thinking about New Year’s resolutions and creating goals. For some it is easy to look at all of the things in our life we want to enhance or improve to follow through on in the coming year, for other it is more of a challenge.

But before turning the page to 2012, spend some time reflecting on all the things you’ve accomplished in 2011.

Sometimes we forget the hurdles we’ve overcome, the barriers we have broken through and the accomplishments we’ve already ticked off the list.

Before I even think about reviewing my goal cards, I spend some time compiling a list of 100 accomplishments or successes I’ve had throughout the past year. Yes, 100! I usually do this between Christmas and New Years. At first the list flows and when I slow down I know it is time to put it aside for a couple hours or a day. When additional items come to mind I go back to the list and add them and the flow begins again. Give yourself permission to take a few days or even up to a week to complete it.

My “List of 100 Accomplishments” is a great exercise that helps me appreciate and celebrate how much I’ve achieved over the year. It also puts me in the right frame to review my goals and what additions or deletions I want to make for the upcoming year.

Give it a try! Grab a pen and paper or open a fresh new Word document on your computer and start your own “List of 100 accomplishments in 2011” today! Then, come back and tell us what you learned from the exercise.

Wishing all of you a very happy New Year!

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Making Decisions – How to Invest Your Most Precious Asset (Yourself!)

December 15, 2011

“Wow, Margaret, you make decisions so quickly and easily!”

It was as surprising compliment – but a welcome one. As I let her words of acknowledgement sink in, I realized they highlighted two very important facts:
1.   Many, many people struggle when it comes to making decisions, and
2.   I had come a really lo-o-ong way in this department.

You see, I wasn’t always quick to make a decision. In fact, more times than I’d like to admit, I agonized over my options, afraid to commit myself one way or the other. What if I made the wrong choice?

Sometimes I’d let the question linger so long that the pressure grew too much to bare, and I’d finally make a hasty decision, just to get it over with. (I can assure you, that’s a quick path to regret.)

Fortunately, in my training to be a professional coach, I finally found the magic formula – a quick and easy decision-making process that has never steered me wrong. Want to know the secret?

It all comes down to values. When you know what means the most to you, it’s easy to weigh your options against these criteria. Let me explain, using a recent example from my own life.

A few months ago, I found myself facing more opportunities than I could possibly commit myself to: I was asked to run for mayor of my city; I was invited to step up an chair a local community foundation; and I had a chance to become Lieutenant Governor Of Education & Training in preparation to be the District Governor of District 21 for Toastmasters International. At first, all three options seemed quite compelling… but there was no way I could possibly fulfill all three roles, and maintain my professional and family commitments.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned through years of service work, it’s this: If you’re not honoring your own needs and values, you can’t very well serve the people you’re trying to support. (“Spreading myself too thin,” “volunteer burnout,” and “filling a slot” are courses in the School of Life that I’d rather not repeat!)

So, what to do? How to choose? In the past, this situation might have paralyzed me… but not this time!

I carefully weighed each option against two sets of specific criteria:

1.   The things that make a volunteer position feel truly fulfilling for me (learning new things, making a difference, working with interesting people, and appreciation); and
2.   The stated values of each organization.

I started with my first option: running for mayor. I am passionate about local politics, and the stated values of my community (environmental protection, local business and economic development, and education) resonate deeply with me. I know a lot about the election process, and I was certain I could fill the role well… but did I really feel like this feel like the best way for me to make a difference? Hmmm… not so much, I decided.

I turned my attention to the second option: being the chair of the Foundation. This is a wonderful group of people, and the organization is community focused, which definitely appeals to me. But when I took a closer look, I realized I was lacking the particular skills it would take to really make a difference in this specific organization. If I can’t take them to a new level and truly move the group forward, why me? I’m certain that someone else can make a bigger impact than I can.

When I considered the third option, District Governor of Toastmasters International, I could feel myself light up. I really was drawn to this opportunity, and I knew I could make a difference for this organization that I have grown to love so much. With strong mentors, eager volunteers, and a committed membership, there was no doubt I’d be surrounded by stimulating, interesting and very appreciative people. Perhaps most importantly, the stated values of Toastmasters – servant leadership, commitment to excellence, respect and integrity – are values I aspire to live by.

It didn’t take long for my decision to reveal itself, and the process was effortless. Knowing the criteria that mattered most – to me and to the organizations – made it easy to identify the best place to invest my time, talents and efforts.

When it came time to communicate my decisions, I must admit, I felt a touch of apprehension. Like most people, I hate to let others down. However, this time, the conversations were easier than ever before. Why? Because all I had to do was mention my values.

   “I’m so sorry, but I have to decline your gracious offer. As much as I love to support local politics, I really don’t feel that running for mayor is the best way for me to contribute. Perhaps I could assist by coaching the candidates through the election process?“

   “I’m so sorry, but I have to decline your gracious offer. I am committed to investing myself where I can make the most difference, and I just don’t think I have the skills that this organization needs. May I suggest some people who may be a better fit?”

When people heard my reasoning, they were more than receptive – they were truly supportive of my desire to live in alignment with my deepest values.

In the end, these decisions served us all far better than if I had caved in to the pressure to please.

Questions to Consider:

If I asked you about your values, could you name your top 5? If not, don’t worry… most people can’t. Feel free to visit my website and download – Live Your Values a quick and easy tool to help you pinpoint the things that mean the most to you.

When you know your values… your truest priorities… you have a ready-made set of criteria to weigh any opportunity against. Whether it’s a new job opportunity, a new relationship, or any other choice you face, knowing your priorities simplifies the decision-making process so radically, and so easily. And, it makes it much easier to communicate your decisions.

I strongly encourage you to take the time to get clear on your own priorities, your unique set of criteria. What keeps you inspired and motivated? What compels you to engage? You need to know! It’s the key to a life well lived.

Don’t forget… I’m on Facebook too! Have we connected yet? If not, please reach out and “friend” me! If you prefer Twitter, I’m there too. Let’s link up!

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Top 10 Business Etiquette Tips for The Holiday Season

November 28, 2011

Business meeting decemberWith the holiday season fast approaching, it’s likely you’ll be attending more social functions than any other time of year. And many of those social gatherings will include business colleagues, executives, and clients—and your supervisor. One of the key things to remember when attending a business function—especially as the holiday festivities kick into high gear and everyone is in the spirit of the season—is that “it’s still business.” How you present yourself at these out-of-office functions is a direct reflection on you—even when there’s champagne flowing and Christmas carols playing in the background.

 

Here are a few business dining and entertaining etiquette tips to help keep you on track:

  1. Dress for success
  2. Arrive on time
  3. Wear a smile
  4. Handshakes matter
  5. Introduce yourself to others
  6. Be a good listener
  7. Ask others about themselves
  8. Good mouth others
  9. Remember the platinum rule – “Treat others as they would like to be treated”
  10. Be gracious and send a thank you note

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Express Yourself – How to Reveal a Bit of Sass with a Lot of Class

November 15, 2011

Have you ever encountered someone who left an unexpected and lasting impression? These people can be few and far between, but when life brings us one, it’s always wise to ponder the experience. Profound lessons may be presenting themselves.

In May, I was the keynote speaker at the annual Every Woman conference in Whistler, Canada. Co-founded by Olympic runner Lynn Kanuka and world champion gymnast Kerri Carlson, this unique forum empowers “every woman” to:

…achieve your goals and fulfill your dreams, to feel uninhibited in trying new activities, challenging yourself and being supported by the women around you…. utilize physical activity to motivate you and to help you to think more clearly, to adopt a healthy lifestyle utilize physical and to take care of your body, to reconnect with ourselves and our friends, to learn something from someone new or different, to keep challenging yourself and to examine what it is we want out of life, and by golly, to have fun!

From belly dancing to laughter yoga, cardio striptease and even a couch potato workout (!), this event was designed to help women get moving, enjoy themselves and feel alive.

I was intrigued to find a burlesque class on the itinerary, and I was curious what it was all about. If you aren’t familiar with this particular art form, here’s a little background.

Burlesque was popular from the 1860s to the 1940s, often in cabarets, clubs and theatres, and featured bawdy comedy and female striptease. By the late 1930s, burlesque shows had up to six exotic dancers, usually supported by one or two comics and a master of ceremonies. Burlesque is presented in a high-spirited mood, and its history includes notable comics such as Mae West, W. C. Fields, Jackie Gleason, and Abbott and Costello. Since the 1990s, there has been a resurgence of interest in burlesque and the fun-loving, glamorous, uninhibited atmosphere of such a show.

Our burlesque dance teacher’s name was Mariah, and her commanding presence completely captivated the room. With volumes of long, red curly hair, a burgundy dance leotard and a flowing ballet skirt, she was a vision of energy and motion. I was intrigued, and I wasn’t alone. Even without a microphone, she had the undivided attention of 100+ women.

“Ladies!” she called out with sheer delight, “It’s time to feel your radiance!” As we soon discovered, self-appreciation is the first and most important ingredient in a saucy burlesque performance.

“Let’s start by reaching down to our ankles, laying our hands gently on our bodies, and slowly drawing them up, tracing and embracing our womanly curves. Flow your hands over your hips, to the curve of your waist, and follow your torso all the way up. As you go, I want to hear you saying: ‘I have arrived and I am FABULOUS!’ When you reach the top, stretch up high and say, ‘Ahhh!’”

What a mood changer! I thought to myself, “Now I know why they call the wind Mariah” (from the Broadway musical, Paint Your Wagon).

Over the course of one hour, her charisma and enthusiasm set the room on fire, transforming our large group of somewhat inhibited women into a hotbed of sensual motion.

That is no small feat – especially in Canada! So, it begs the question: how did she do it?

Her first secret was an attitude of radical self-acceptance. We all know that confidence is sexy, but the way Mariah strutted and swayed revealed an uncommon level of comfort with her womanly curves. Somehow, seeing that modeled gave us all permission to move more freely. “Don’t be shy about your curves, celebrate them! After all, they distinguish us from the men. And a lady who is comfortable in her body and truly enjoys it is deeply intriguing and sexy to a man.”

Her second secret was a deep understanding of sensuality. “Being comfortable with your body comes from feeling it, and enjoying all the ways you can move and express your femininity. Being aware of your body and feeling it move is a sensual act; it lights up your senses. That experience of sensuality is sexy!”

Her third secret was all about expressing the energy of the dance with an extra bit of flair. “Think hips, lips and tips, Ladies!” And for that crucial element of sass, she taught us how to throw a fiercely flirty look to the audience. (Hint: it starts with having the right thought in mind… but I probably shouldn’t print it here!)

Beyond the basics of form and technique, Mariah’s most valuable lesson was delivered through her being – being comfortable with who she is and completely at home in her own skin. And, perhaps more importantly, being comfortable with everyone else in the room. Mariah inspired us to enjoy ourselves and our womanly bodies, and to accept ourselves and each other completely.

Think about that for a moment! There is so much power and possibility in acceptance. So much freedom and joy when there is nothing to hide!

There are so many opportunities to feel bold and celebrate yourself, and revel in the experience of others celebrating you. In the end, isn’t that really the heart of burlesque?

Mariah says she teaches dance, but the way I see it, she teaches people how to loosen up tight bodies and minds, and embrace a deep awareness of the sheer pleasure of being alive. She reminded me to enjoy the simple things in life, like the feel of smooth, well-fitting fabric on my skin, or the energy and nourishment I get from healthy foods. There is so much pleasure available in every moment! We just have to reach for it.

Whether you like to dance or not, that is one type of exercise that anyone can do – and it always feels good.

Questions to Consider:

1.   How do you hide your inner Mariah – and why?
2.   Who would you be if you accepted yourself fully?
3.   How can you express your pleasure-loving, flirtatious side in a bold yet classy way?

Note: Mariah-Jane Thies is a ballet teacher, and a natural performer. After a brief stint in a local production of the musical “Sweet Charity,” portraying a flirty, sensual dancehall girl, she fell in love with the art of burlesque – and let me tell you, it showed. If you’re interested in learning more of her secrets and drawing inspiration from her passion, you can connect with her on Facebook or read her blog.

That reminds me… I’m on Facebook too! Have we connected yet? If not, please reach out and “friend” me! If you prefer Twitter, I’m there too. Let’s link up!

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Magical Moments

October 30, 2011

Sometimes, a chance encounter with a truly remarkable person can transform the way you see yourself and the way you engage with the world around you.

Case in point: I recently took my very active six-year-old grandson, Gavin, on a Disney cruise. We were both so excited about this adventure, and I hoped we would create some wonderful memories together… but I had no idea about the lessons that awaited me on board that ocean liner.

On our first evening at sea, we headed toward the dining room for our evening meal. Just ahead of us, we noticed an older gentleman in a wheelchair, surrounded by his wife and four grown grandchildren. For a brief moment, I worried about how Gavin would respond to someone in a wheelchair; children can be so innocently curious.

A moment later, I realized I had no reason for concern. With a smile and a wave, Gavin and Sam became instant friends.

“Hey,” Sam said in a conspiratorial whisper, “reach into my backpack. There’s something special in there for you.”

Gavin looked up at me, wondering if this was really okay. I nodded to him with an encouraging smile, so he carefully unzipped the bag and peered inside. His eyes grew wide with delight. Inside the bag were hundreds of colorful pins, each one an animated Disney character.

“Go ahead, choose one,” Sam said. “You can start a collection!” Gavin selected a Mickey Mouse with shiny yellow ears, and by the way he held it in his palm, you would have thought it was pure gold. He was beside himself with joy. When I glanced at Sam, I saw he was equally delighted. Gavin must have thanked him five times. As we parted ways, all three of us were grinning from ear to ear.

The following night was “pirate night” on the ship, and all the guests were dressed accordingly. Gavin sported a Mickey Mouse cap with a pirate scarf, a big hoop earring, and a plastic hook to hide his hand. Feeling a little silly, I gamely wore a patch over one eye.

On our way to dinner, we ran into Sam again. Was he a sight see! The man was dressed in full pirate regalia: ragged cut-off pants, a scarf on his head tied rakishly to one side, and enough black eye makeup to make Johnny Depp proud. In the one hand, he carried a pole with a toy parrot perched on top, and his wheelchair bore a skull-and-crossbones flag draped across the back. From head to toe, Sam was dressed to the nines.

“Ahoy, mate,” he called out to Gavin, with a sideways smirk and a squint in his eye. “Ready to git some grub?”

“Aye aye, Captain,” Gavin crowed with a grin. He had been practicing his pirate-speak all afternoon.

“Well then, I’ll hold back the land lubbers; you and your beautiful lass go on ahead.” I felt myself blush. Next to Sam, I felt so boring in my simple eye patch. I realized I had not really committed myself to the fun!

As the evening progressed, Gavin and Sam’s laughter could be heard throughout the dining room. These newfound friends were having an evening to remember, while I sat quietly at my table, wondering, “How come he’s in a wheelchair, but I’m the one feeling handicapped?”

That night, as I lay in bed, I pondered this question deeply. Sam’s joyful way of being was a teaching, and I was determined to learn from it.

The next day, as we made our way down a corridor, Sam came whizzing by. “Let’s race!” he yelled over his shoulder, and Gavin took off with squeals of laughter, trying his best to catch his new friend. When I finally caught up with them, Gavin was breathing heavily, a giant grin spread across his rosy little cheeks.

In that moment, I realized Sam had become the highlight of our cruise. No luxury ship or sumptuous meal could compete with the sheer joy he exuded.

In the days and weeks that followed, I thought a lot about Sam.

   He knew the joy of giving with a glad heart.

   He showed us that participating fully is living life to the fullest.

   He knew how to make his own fun, regardless of the circumstances.

What began as an adventure for my grandson turned out to be a poignant experience for us both – an important course in the School of Life. I am so grateful for this chance encounter, and so glad we were open to the experience.

Questions to Consider:

1.   When in public, are you open to interactions with strangers?
2.   Are you less available to those who are physically or mentally challenged?
3.   What can you do to bring more fun and joy to everyday moments?

Remember: life is what you make of it. An open mind and an engaging heart make the world more magical, for everyone. Learn to be more spontaneous and joyful, no matter where you are or what you’re doing. Fun is the spice of life!

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We Need More Sinks!

October 25, 2011
woman brushing her teeth

About 15 years ago I was at the orthodontist for an evaluation of my mouth. At the time, my regular dentist had some concerns and sent me off to see a specialist. My concerns were how much pain I would endure—both physically and financially!

When the orthodontist indicated how much the treatment would cost (the price of a small car!) I laughed and giggled at his humor. I really thought he was joking. In my mind, the most I expected to pay was $5,000!

When the orthodontist realized that I thought he was joking he began again, this time more earnestly. “Seriously” he said, “Yes, it will cost as much as a small car—around $25000.”

I could not even fathom that amount and I left his office with the funny story tucked under my arm. The price of a small car? Really? Several months went by before I knew I had to take his advice more seriously. I began the task of planning of how I was going to make it happen.

Eight six-hour appointments and many one hour and two-hours appointments later and…oh.. $30000 later… I now have beautiful teeth that are still my own and don’t present problems when I chew. Am I happy I did it? Yes. That’s why I’m the one you’ll see brushing her teeth in the public washroom after a meal, at a conference, or at a meeting if snacks were served! Do I have guidance on that? Yes, I do! (And it could save you a bunch of money!)

  • Always carry a toothbrush and toothpaste with you. This is easier, of course, if you are a woman with a handbag or a person with a brief case. (I always have a backup in the glove box).
  • After brushing and rinsing and putting away your tools, take a paper towel or hand towel and wipe out the sink. It’s the right thing to do.

And a big thank you to all you the women who have found me brushing my teeth in the ladies room and rooted me on. Dental hygiene rocks!

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Restroom Etiquette for Air Travelers

October 11, 2011

Have you ever flown Air Pacific? Aren’t they wonderful? I could not believe the legroom and the service. The flight attendees were incredible. Not only did they perform their tasks well, but they were so genuine and warmly authentic. I felt like I could not have been in better hands.

The challenge—and of course there has to be challenge—was one or two other fellow passengers. Although I hesitate to hold them responsible because, lets face it, who teaches people how to behave on an airplane? There’s no real manual, and some of us don’t go out of our own “zone” long enough to look around.

As we rush along the aisle, hoping the queue will not be too long, I wonder how many of us give thought to the bathroom etiquette that we should observe as we relieve ourselves at thirty thousand feet.

Here are some recommendations I put together. It’s a bit of a “how to” for restroom etiquette on an airplane.

When using the restroom on a plane:

    • Use the seat cover that is provided. It’s there to protect your health and the health of your fellow air travel mates. Pull gently on it so that just one cover comes out, rather than half a dozen. If more come out of the package, discard them in the wastebasket. Please don’t leave on the floor! It’s not pleasant to be walking around with a toilet cover stuck to your shoe!
    • Close the lid of the toilet before flushing. (We can tell if you have done this, as the lid should be closed when the next person arrives in the washroom.) During turbulence, liquid can easily splash up onto the seat—and sitting down on that does not make for a pleasant experience for anyone! This also keeps the water from being splashed onto the seat when you brush your teeth or wash your hands in the sink.

 

    • Always, always, always drain your water from the sink. After you have dried your hands (taking 1 or 2 towelletes) give the sink a quick wipe. Flight attendants simply cannot clean up after each person. And thank goodness for that otherwise it might take us even longer to get to use the washroom.

 

    • If you spray on the mirror while brushing your teeth wipe it up with a towellete with clean water. Trust me it will work like a charm.

 

  • If you pull out too many towellettes, place the extras on the counter. If they end up on the floor, please toss them in the garbage. They are definitely not suitable to use.

During a long trip a nasty bathroom does nothing to perk the spirit up. Basic bathroom etiquette demands at the very minimum you clean up after yourself. If something splashes, wipe it up. If something drops, toss it out. Leave the tiny space the way you found it – or better!

Photo credit: eyeliam

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Respiratory Etiquette: Cover Your Coughs and Sneezes

October 5, 2011
Couching etiquette tips

Growing up, I’m sure your mother told you to cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough, right? And what did you do? You coughed into your hand, didn’t you?

While coughing into your hand might stop the person directly in front of you from being assaulted with your germs, it’s likely that you will spread those germs to others the minute you touch a door knob or shake someone’s hand.

Proper cough etiquette involves turning your head and coughing—or sneezing–into a tissue, or the inside of your elbow if a tissue is not available.

To help stop the spread of germs, during the cold and flu season, here are a few simple respiratory etiquette tips in mind:

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  • If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not into your hands.
  • When you blow your nose, throw away the tissue and wash your hands immediately.
  • DON’T touch your face (nose, ears, eyes, mouth) with your hands – this minimizes the chance of getting sick!
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Carry a hand sanitizer for times when you don’t have access to soap and water.

When it comes to respiratory etiquette, a few good manners are good for everyone. Stay well!

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Don’t Forget the Three “C’s” at Sea

September 26, 2011

Cruise etiquette tips

I’m thrilled to be traveling with my grandson this week! We’re sailing away on Disney Wonder to the port of Los Angeles. It’s always such a joy to spend time with my young grandson–seeing life through the eyes of a child. Everything is such a wonder!

The Disney line of ships are, of course, very kid-friendly, but they are also very sophisticated in design. Disney does a great job of creating an environment and atmosphere that appeals to both young and old. “Sleekness with a touch of fun.”

The cruise ships are getting bigger and bigger these days. The Disney Wonder accommodate up to 2700 people! That’s a lot of sun bathers and dinner guests!

With 2700 people geared up for a week of adventure at sea, there’s bound to be a few that forget the good manners they practice at home. It’s easy to get carried away when you’re feeling carefree, isn’t it?

Here are a guide to good manners so you don’t forget the three “C’s” at sea.

Don’t be a chaise hog. No matter what cruise ship I am on, there are always those invisible cadre of early risers who pile their belongings on lounge chairs on the pool deck to “save” them for later. If you aren’t using the chairs, please leave them available for others.

Follow the dress code. Refer to your ship’s daily program for appropriate attire for the evening’s activities. They will typically provide dining options for those who are keeping it casual for the cruise. If it’s formal wear–don’t show up for dinner in sweats and sneakers.

Mind you children. Even though Disney is family-friendly, that doesn’t mean that children should have full reign of the ship! Besides the fact that it’s unsafe to let kids run around the pool deck or play on the elevators, it interferes with the enjoyment of other passengers. Kids can have fun, safely, and still use the good manners they use at home!

Take your turn. Be considerate of others at the gym and spa. Wipe down the exercise equipment after your workout and don’t extend your stay if others are waiting in line.

Be patient. Disembarking the ship can be a little overwhelming, but it’s something you can’t avoid when cruising. When waiting in line to go ashore, be patient. Don’t be in such a hurry that you compromise the safety of the other passengers.

Don’t complain. With so many people on board, you’re bound to wait in line at guest services for things like cashing a travelers checks or booking shore excursions. Instead of whining and complaining–which no one wants to listen to, anyway– why not strike up a conversation with a guest while you wait. People from all over the world are on board your ship and you might find a new friend while you wait. Besides, you’re on vacation so relax and go with the flow!

Let consideration, courtesy and civility  be your guide as you sail the open seas!

photo credit: davecobb

 

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Posted by Margaret in Everyday Etiquette