Manners Problem?

Question

I alway manage to do the wrong thing. Such as accidentaly spilling on my shirt, double dipping, and saying the wrong thing. Help!

Answer 1

you must be my twin !!

Answer 2

It doesn't sound like your problem has much (if anything) to do with manners. Accidentally spilling something on your shirt isn't bad manners. It's an accident, and it can happen to anyone. Saying the wrong thing can be a problem -- often that happens when you say the first thing that comes into your head. Taking a breath before you answer gives you a chance to second-guess yourself, and hopefully, to realize when you're about to put your foot in it. But reading your question, it sounds as though you are young, impetuous, enthusiastic and eager. None of these have anything to do with manners. So don't be so hard on yourself. Far better to make the odd faux pas than be perfectly correct but so straight laced that no one wants to have anything to do with you!

Answer 3

Try to slow down. If you take a pause before speaking or doing things, you will have more control.

You obviously WANT to do the right thing and that is more than half the battle.

Nervousness is probably what is making you do things you don't mean to. Try having a few stock phrases ready in your mind so that you can diffuse your embarrassment with a little humor. For example: if you trip, say something like " I've been practicing that all week!". Or when you spill on yourself, say "Out damn spot" ( that's a Shakespeare reference so it's cute and intelligent at the same time ) and just grin. If you can learn to take it all a little less seriously, you will probably find the problem itself goes away.

Good luck

Answer 4

I say the wrong thing all the time - don't feel bad about that. As for spilling stuff on your shirt, well, just bring along extra clothes, try not to drink when you're going someplace important, etc.

Another tip for the whole spilling issue - drink only clear waters/etc. It works. It really works =)

Double dipping - salsa, etc? Right? Just get your own bowl or ask for your own bowl. So many people do it nowdays, it's not really an issue except for sanitary reasons

Answer 5

People make mistakes and sometimes you have to learn to laugh at yourself, however being female, you should at least learn the basic manners (table manners, first date manners, conversation starters, how to dress appropriately, etc.) so that when attending formal situations, you will know how to handle yourself gracefully.

The best way to learn etiquette is to read a book. Get one from the bookstore or borrow one from the library. Read it well, and next time you are out, practice one manner at a time until you get used to all of them. Also, with regards to saying the wrong things, think about what you want to say in your head first before you blurt out the words, especially if you are with someone important.

Remember, it takes a lot of practice! Don't be too hard on yourself.

Answer 6

As for the spilling, slow down and be more careful. Double dipping, just stop, it's gross and the last always take a few seconds to think before you speak.

Answer 7

Agree with old lady..as a remedy ..try yoga..meditation or read The Little Book of Tao. All these things will help you achieve spiritual and emotional balance and promote general well being and confidence.

Answer 8

You have to slow yourself down! Read an etiquette book, and make little post its for around your house and car. Once you know the rules really well they'll become second nature, you'll feel more confortable, and stop spilling, tripping, etc.

Answer 9

I also spill on my shirt (natural hazard from having large breasts), and need to think about it constantly.

Answer 10

Maybe thats your style, don't fight it make it work for you. Become a comedian

Answer 11

Don't try be be anyone your not, so what be yourself- try to improve one thing at a time.