George Washington's and Abraham Lincoln's birthdays were two separate holidays when I was young. In 1971, their birthdays were combined to create one event that we celebrate today, President's Day.We know that their accomplishments were significant in U.S. history and continue to impact us today. Many people may not realize that our first president, George Washington, also penned guidance on civility, Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation, listing 110 rules to guide behavior for a respectful community. Notably, he penned these before he was 16!
Interestingly, while much has changed since Washington penned these rules in 1745, little has also changed. We still struggle with civility even after these almost 270 years.
Here are a few of Washington's rules and their current application.
Washington: "Every Action done in Company, ought to be with Some Sign of Respect, to those that are Present"
Current Application: Avoid using cell phones in conversation with others.
Washington: "Be not hasty to believe flying Reports to the Disparagement of any"
Current Application: In the workplace, make your own judgements based on your experience with another. Don't believe everything you hear.
Washington: "If any one come to Speak to you while you are are Sitting Stand up..."
Current Application: When at a networking meeting, stand if you are able, to greet others joining your table. Standing to greet shows respect for both the other person and yourself.
Washington: "Be not apt to relate News if you know not the truth thereof. In Discoursing of things you Have heard Name not your Author always A Secret Discover not."
Current Application: Avoid gossip.
To read all 110 rules, see Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation.
