Common sense is not so common, Voltaire once wrote. There is always that one bad-mannered person in class who sneezes without covering their mouth. Or the person who takes up two seats on the train just because they like to sit with their legs spread out. As much as we’d like to live in a world where everybody is truly well-mannered, there will always be bad people who lack common sense or mindfulness in the most common situations.
Here are thirty simple reminders of what to do and not to do when you’re in a public space. If you think of yourself as having good manners, most of these annoying things probably will be a no-brainer for you. And don’t forget to share your worst (or best) experiences with annoying people who lacked common sense in the comments!
(Facebook cover image: Kyoww)
#1 Not Letting People Get Out Of Busses And Elevators Before Entering
It makes a lot more sense than you trying to push yourself into the crowd who’s trying to get out anyway. Just stand aside, let people out, and then get in.
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286points
#2 Not Using Turning Signals
When did it become normal for people to ignore the most basic rules of driving?
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279points
#3 Being Rude To Your Server
Imagine working 12 hour shifts, always on your feet, tired as hell, and then dealing with the most annoying and rude customers? Yeah, don’t be that person who thinks waitresses have to deal with your terrible attitude. They’re just here to do their job and leave, don’t make it harder than it is.
259points
#4 Listening To Music Without Headphones
You think your music taste is great? Perfect, go study music, become a DJ or a producer, but please don’t shove your music taste onto other people who would rather listen to silence then the latest remix of DJ Khaled’s new song while sitting on a bus on their way to home.
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259points
#5 Texting While Driving
Just don’t do this one. Don’t. You’re risking yours and someone else’s life for a text, it’s not worth it, and no matter what you’re typing, it will never be as important as being safe at the road.
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247points
#6 Not Putting Your Stuff Back On The Proper Shelves In Grocery Stores
Just because you decided you don’t need that item anymore doesn’t mean somebody else should have to put it back to its place. Your ignorance creates extra work for the already busy grocery store employees so put the stuff back from where you took it.
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245points
#7 Leaving A Mess After Yourself
No matter if it’s your office, public bathroom or a clothing store, leaving your things all over the place is just rude. You’re not entitled to having people picking up your things after you.
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241points
#8 Standing On The Left Side And Blocking The Way
This one will definitely make your blood boil. Every country is different, but usually you walk on the left and you stand on the right, it’s that simple.
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228points
#9 Swiping Right When Someone Hands You Their Phone To Show A Picture
They only wanted to show you one picture, you do not have the right to scroll through their photos and check what they have on their phone. Imagine how awkward it would be if you would stumble on something very private?
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219points
#10 Not Cleaning Up After Your Dog
Picking up poop and throwing it away takes way less time than stepping in it and cleaning it up, not to mention getting rid of the smell. So, if you want a dog, understand that it comes with a poop that you’ll have to pick up.
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212points
#11 Putting Your Feet All Over Somebody Else’s Space On Planes And Trains
Feet are already a sensitive topic to many people, nobody enjoys seeing or smelling somebody else’s feet (unless you’re into that stuff). But taking your shoes off and putting your feet near people sitting next to you is just rude and disgusting.
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191points
#12 Not Washing Your Hands After Using The Bathroom
Nobody wants to touch your hands after you used the toilet, and it’s even worse since nobody is ever sure who washed their hands and who didn’t. Be kind to others and stop sharing you bacteria.
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191points
#13 Throwing Something Into A Trash Bin, Missing It, And Not Picking It Up
Struggling with your aim? Then maybe just try walking to the trash bin? Who would have thought that it’s that simple? Groundbreaking.
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176points
#14 Parking In Disabled Parking Spots
Oh come on, this one is just plain illegal. There’s always a free parking space somewhere, always, just try harder to find one.
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172points
#15 Having A Cart Full Of Groceries In The Express Lane
It might be quicker for you but it ruins the whole point of the ‘express lane’. And don’t act so surprised if the cashier refuses to scan your stuff.
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167points
#16 Not Dimming Your Car’s Front Lights While Driving Past Someone In The Dark
Headlight flashing is a popular way to send another driver a message. But always remember that your lights can be blinding other people and distracting them from the road, so please make sure that your lights are not too bright. The rule is simple, if you can see the driver - you’re too late.
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165points
#17 Standing Too Close To Someone
If you’re waiting in a line, please try your best not to breathe into someone else’s neck. This accidental intimacy is uncalled for and always unwanted. Try to be mindful, there’s a reason the term “safe space” exists.
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159points
#18 Snapping Fingers At A Server
Just don’t. It’s rude, obnoxious and degrading.
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153points
#19 Leaving Carts All Over The Parking Lot
How many times have you needed to park your car, thought you saw a free space, but when you drove closer saw it was occupied by a bunch of grocery store carts? There are special places to leave them, and they are always near the parking lot, please, put them where they are supposed to be.
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151points
#20 Having Your Stuff All Over The Place In Public Places
Everybody has heard about manspreading, but have you ever heard about ‘Shebagging”, it’s when you put your stuff all over the place, especially in public transportation, blocking the available seat next to you and leaving others standing. If you ever catch yourself doing so, try putting your stuff on your legs and offering the seat to another passenger.
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147points