You slowly realize all that old-fashioned advice your mother and father gave you growing up has a bit of merit.

Dress the part. If you’re wondering if you should wear a suit, just wear the damn suit.

Try and show up a few minutes early. If you’re going to be late that’s okay but let the respective parties know ahead of time.

Look people in the eyes when you talk to them. Listen more than you speak. Shake their hands firmly but not arrogantly.

Give people the benefit of the doubt. Assume good intentions until proven otherwise. Forgive.

At the very least, say thank you. But, if you’ve got the time and the genuine interest, send a thank you note.

Get physical. Show up in person. Zoom might be convenient but it’s uninspiring.

Compliment more than your criticize. Keep the bulk of your opinions to yourself. Not everything you think needs to be said. When you do share, share with care.

As dated as it may sound, be chivalrous. Believe women should earn every bit as much as men. But, open doors, pull out chairs and, Christ almighty, pick up the tab. I’m tired of all these split bills.

None of this is new nor novel. It’s all simple shit we know we should do but don’t.

However, what it signals to both ourselves and those around us, is that we respect this world and the people in it.