#7 When you cough, sneeze or burp

It is important to turn your head away from others and cover your mouth with the full part of your hand.  Afterward you should say, "Excuse me."  

It amazes me how many adults don't do this, not to mention children.  It's important to minimize the spreading of germs and this is one of the oldest, wisest and best ways to begin.  Of course, afterwards, you should always wash your hands.  :)

It is of interest to know, the "Bless You" from others after a sneeze started as a myth about evil spirits jumping into your body during the sneeze process.  The blessing is to ward off evil spirits.  Of course, if you are the recipient of an uncovered sneeze, that evil spirit is more likely to find you. 

#6 If asked a question in conversation, you should

ask a question in return.  If someone asks, "Did you have a nice day?" you should answer the question and then ask a question in return.  For example:  "Yes, it was a wonderful day. I went shopping with my mother.  How was your day?"

Conversation is an exchange of words and ideas, share.  Others will see you as friendly and outgoing, someone who cares and shares, and again it shows respect.  It's important to show others you are interested in them.  It's also important not to monopolize the conversation.  Take pauses to allow others to express their ideas and thoughts.  EXCHANGE WORDS!  This rule is really about letting others know you are interested in them.   

#5 Do Not Brag

If you do well, do not brag.  If you lose, do not show anger.  Instead say something like. "That was fun!" or "Great game." or say nothing at all.  Bragging about yourself can put you in a negative light.  There is no need to put your accomplishments or abilities on display.  Have you every liked a professional player because you've watched him improve?  Suddenly, he begins to brag about his accomplishments and then just as suddenly, you no longer have the enthusiasm about him you did when he was just a regular guy doing well.  Don't let this happen to you.  We are all good at something and do poorly at other things.  And i also believe if you can learn something, so can someone else.  No one stays on top for ever.  There should be plenty of room to share the lime light.  Let your accomplishments speak for themselves.  

#4 Respect other's opinions.

This sets the scene that promotes conversation and real communication and creates an environment that is supportive and non threatening.  Wouldn't it be wonderful to never be put on the defensive for your thoughts and ideas?  Where those thoughts and ideas develop into discussion is the objective.  Everyone has something to contribute.  It's okay to disagree, but there is a way to do so gently without hurting feelings or making someone feel doubtful about themselves.  Appreciate without being condescending.  Disagree without being condescending.  Be open to discussion and you will be surprised how others jump into the conversation comfort zone.

#3 If someone does something well congratulate them

To see a fellow student appreciated for a job well done can be an excellent motivator. 

It's funny how easy it is to cheer for your favorite athlete but hold back when a friend does something well, or differently, or just plain amazing,  We don't feel the need to praise them.  

GO FRIENDS!  We all need a pat on the back once in a while.  We all need to feel appreciated.  

I would also say that encouragement is just a needed for the students who are trying and not quite making the congratulations cut.  

#2 Make Eye Contact

Making eye contact with whom you are speaking certainly gives more emphasis and emotion to what you're saying.  If someone speaks to you, turn and make eye contact with that person, it also shows respectfulness and gives the impression you are serious about the conversation. 

Being from a household where hearing is difficult to begin with, making eye contact is a necessity.   We connect to each other through our eyes much more powerfully.  Usually the rewards are instant.  This will be the family lesson tonight at the dinner table. 

Tonight, chicken masala, rice and roti.  I might even stir up some iced tea.

#1 When responding to any adult, you must answer with "Yes ma'am" or "No Sir."

This is something I try to do all the time, even when I speak to my children. When I get a call from my child I answer "Yes sir." I want to be an example.

I do have an obstacle. Some family members consider this particular verbiage unnecessary. He/she actually thinks to call someone SIR or MA'AM is considering the person you're speaking to as more important than yourself.

To me this is simply showing respect for others, and doesn't diminish self at all. Everyone should be shown respect, and the act of being respectful gains respect from others.