The benefits of being nice to others

CEBU, Philippines - Being nice at home sets the stage for better behavior. Other children watching you react to various situations in a nice way want to copy your example and be like you. If you are polite to them and consistent in showing proper manners with them, they are much more likely to do the same.

Good manners get positive attention. Earning high grades at school is important, but knowing how to do the school work well isn’t the only thing expected of you. Good grades become more admirable if the person getting them is well-mannered as well.

Being nice to your friends will keep them around you. When your friends know you care enough for them, they are more likely to include you in activities and events.

Treating other people with respect makes them want to be nice to you in return. Whether you need help at school, at the grocery store or you need some street directions, your good manners will make other people want to help you. Holding a door for a young mom or older person can make their day much better. Smiling at someone might just be the bright spot in his or her day.

Others will want to listen to you if you also give them a chance to speak. The person you are speaking to will feel that you care if you take a breather and hear what he or she has to say.

Being nice can also boost one’s self-confidence. If you are in the habit of using good manners all the time, you won’t have to worry about whether or not you’re doing or saying the right thing. It will come natural to you, and others will respect you more for it. (www.thespruce.com) Debby Mayne