Etiquette: And Its Relevance Today

Etiquette is defined as the customary code of polite behaviour in society or among members of a particular profession or group. Also known as good mannerisms, "gentlemen' behaviour, protocal etc. These come after a sense of consciousness and self-awareness, and help an individual shape up his/her image around society and around the flock of people we interact with every day. You see, this fancy term originated during the times of English modernization, and these were rules of conduct that were usually followed by gentry, which has been getting chill pretty lately. The allied notion of civility that was once formulated sounds hollow today. Gone are the days when etiquettes were what defined an individual and though I believe they are relevant today, a lot has to be changed with building times, and I hope you agree with me.

• Earlier: Always hold the door for the lady. Now: The first person to arrive has to hold the door, the gender doesn't matter.

• Earlier: Always have a centre arrangement on the dining table, preferably floral. Now: All items having nothing to do with food shoul be off the table, especially phones.

• Earlier: Women and younger kids, lower your eyes while talking to an elder. Now: Always have an eye contact with the person you are speaking to, and do not check your phone while talking. This is literally the worst thing you can do to ruin a face to face conversation.

• Earlier: Have lovely conversations around the table. Now: Okay these are still true while having them offline. When on table, avoid calls and replying back to texts. If the call is unavoidable, always excuse yourself from the table.

• Earlier: Always be chivalrous. 24x7, 365 days a year. Now: Chivalry ain't dead. But know when your chivalry turns to misogyny. It is chivalrous to get flowers, but it is not chivalrous to insist driving yourself. Give your lady a chance, she might be a better driver.

• Earlier: Keep all the necessary salutations and protocol while sending a letter/message. Now: Please keep your messages brief and crisp. We know you want the other person to have a great day and the weather is pleasant, just don't use up all the voicemail space.

• Earlier: Give your guests a gala time. Now: Do not let your guests drink and drive, it is for their own safety.

And the most important,

• Earlier: Feminism is a faux pas. Now: Feminism is real and vivid. Understand and be a part of it.