More Rules for Modern Life
Setting a Higher Standard
The first iteration of Rules for Modern Life remains the most widely read newsletter in the history of The Contender. Everything written there still stands, particularly rules no. 4, 16 and 28. A year later, Fifty at Fifty, featured lessons I’ve learned over half a century and that also struck a chord. Clearly there’s interest in manners and good behavior, at least among kind and polite Contender readers!
The world keeps moving and I’d like to say collective conduct is improving, but we know that’s not the case. It’s almost like there’s some new horror, often brought on by technology, that lays us low. So here are some more friendly reminders to try to do the better thing, even when all those around you are TikToking into the abyss. Let’s still be the one who sets the higher standard.
1/ Know the names of staff of at your favorite restaurant. Write them down if you have to.
2/ The grill-master does not require unsolicited advice.
3/ Don’t have two martinis before you arrive.
4/ If you meet an artist whose work you like then tell them.
5/ It’s not the gate agent’s fault the flight is late. Be nice.
6/ FaceTiming at full volume is the Devil’s work.
7/ Be able to cook one dish, even if it’s simple. Good at home, good as a guest.
8/ When in doubt, write a thank you note.
9/ The airport lounge is not your personal office.
10/ Know what you want to order when you get to the front of the line.
11/ Leisure doesn’t have to be self-improving.
12/ Don’t bring your iced coffee—or anything else you can drink—into a restaurant or bar. These people are running a business.
