I met with an associate turned friend today. He showed quite an interested in my work called “life etiquette.” He became excited as he shared his views on self-esteem and confidence in women; young women in particular. Admitting that he feels more comfortable when addressing male audiences, he still wonders why “girls (females) feel that they have to lower their standards to get a mate.” He believes, generally speaking, that young men are often intimidated by ‘strong and confident women.’ Because these strong and confident women have the same desires as other women, they often lower their standards in order to get a date or a mate. His words, not mine; however, I believe there is some truth to his assessment.
His message to men and women alike is “be aware of the way you carry yourself, and do not lower your standards to fit in.” In other words, work on knowing yourself, respecting yourself and being insistent that others respect you as well.
As I have shared before, the three overarching themes to my Social Education and Life Etiquette™ Series, are 1) Getting to know you (yourself ) 2) Getting to know others and 3) putting your best foot forward. How can you expect others to respect you if you don’t respect yourself? In the words of the Staple Singers, “If you don’t respect yourself, ain’t nobody gonna give a good cahoot, na na na na; respect yourself, respect yourself, respect yourself, respect yourself.”
Today, do something to get to know and love YOU better. Spend some time reflecting on you, what makes you happy, what pleases you and the values and boundaries that you’ve established for your life.
Ms. J
Life Etiquette Expert
Manners Are Memorable
Etiquette Tip:
Work on knowing yourself, respecting yourself and being insistent that others respect you as well.
