POSITIVE TASK #8: Holding Doors Open

    Often as is enter a building the person ahead of me is totally oblivious to the idea of holding the door open for me.  I learned this social skill as a little girl.  I don’t quite remember who taught it to me, but it was a regular practice in my surroundings.  Fast forward to me being an adult, and I am often left a little surprised and annoyed that other adults don’t think about this act!  Personally, I think it’s an important social skill everyone needs to have in their repertoire. 
When should we hold a door open? An example is …

• When you have entered a building followed immediately by another person.  Whether it be at a library, church, school, the mall, a theatre, or a restaurant, try holding the door open for the person following behind you. 

What are the benefits for doing this?…

• It’s a nice thing to do
• You are being kind  
• You are practicing good manners
• You are acknowledging the other person’s presence
• You are saying to the person behind you, “you matter”
• You want others to do the same for you
• You are not being selfish

As you consider opening a car door, an elevator door, the door of an office building, etc., think about whether or not it is necessary based on distance, awkardness, or just the reason you may want to do it.   
If you want to be considered a “nice” person, try teaching and practicing this unwritten social code.  You are in control and will feel better for it. 


A source to explore...https://www.mannersmentor.com/the-five-manners-for-opening-every-door/

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