Ever wondered about the secret rules that shape how we talk and behave? “What unspoken rules do you think everyone should know?” I asked. Let’s explore the top answers to this question and uncover the hidden codes of conduct that guide our social lives.
1. Getting on an Elevator
The most upvoted comment in this thread is, “If you’re getting on an elevator, don’t stand right in front of the doors, it’s so rude. Especially in hospitals.”
Another user commented that they are always surprised by how many people don’t know this.
2. Know When It’s Time to Go Home
The second unwritten life rule is, “If you’re at a party and the host slaps their knees and stands up… it’s time to go home.”
Another user added you should add standing around for 20 minutes while ever so slightly moving toward the door, and you’ve got a Midwestern goodbye.
3. Act As You Know Them
An unwritten guideline a user shares is if an unfamiliar girl or woman approaches you while you’re out and discreetly requests you to pretend like you know her, guess what? You’ve coincidentally encountered your best friend, and all you have to do is engage in a friendly conversation with her!
One user asked why it should be a woman; they responded that it doesn’t have to be a woman. They explained further that it is a woman or girl in distress most of the time, but she also meant it the other way around. People are helping people; that’s the main reason she posted it.
4. Don’t Have Your Phone Out on a Date
Coy commented people shouldn’t have their phones out while they’re on a date. Another user jokingly said, “That’s why they say to keep it in your pants.”
A third said this is also the unspoken rule if you hang out with friends you don’t see often. Just talk and if you don’t want to talk, stay home and be on your phone.
5. Always Answer the Banana
One user shared that if a young child says you have a call and hands you a banana, you answer it.
Johnny shared a tip if you want to escape the call, he has a full one-sided conversation on the banana, then eventually make it sound like the person on the other end is asking for the kid so I can say, “yeah, they are right here” and hand it back to them and say “it’s for you.”
6. The Use of a Urinal
Davos comments that an unspoken rule is to never use a urinal directly next to another guy if others are available.
One shared he got to watch this guy code in action this weekend. “Driving long distance hit the rest stop, I and 4 other strangers are heading in the same time, no one in there, everyone skipped a urinal, and the last guy took the stall. Brilliant work.”
7. Cover Your Mouth
Polly comments that the most common unspoken rule is to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. You can keep your germs with you.
Ricki added that if you’re shaking hands, cough into the crook of your arm.
8. Making Marks in Books That Are Loaned
Nami comments, don’t make marks in a book someone loaned you. She explains that it means no dog-earing the pages, no highlighting/ underlining/ circling phrases, and no writing notes in the margins. “If you want to do that, get your own copy, don’t ask to borrow a copy from me.”
A second user added, “Don’t lick your fingers to turn my pages”.
9. Don’t Point Out Someone’s Acne
Yala shared their opinion about the most important unspoken rule, commenting that you don’t point out if someone has acne. “Believe me, they know.”
Another user explained that people have a deep familiarity with their bodies, which extends to everything that has to do with them. They are much more aware of their body’s appearance than anyone else. Anything that someone else might notice, they see constantly. This includes acne, fat, scars, birthmarks, asymmetry, deformities, balding, gray hair, etc. They know.
According to his comment, the items that can be identified are minor details that can be easily corrected. These include a tag sticking out, an untied shoelace, random lint, a strand of hair out of place, and odd clothes bunched up. Only these things will be appreciated.
10. Someone Using a Service Animal
This user comments that if you see someone using a service animal, do not inquire about that person’s disability, and don’t try to get the dog’s attention. Assistance dogs are medical tools, and distractions can cause harm to the people that rely on them.
Another user, Ner, added, “On a side note, if a service animal ever comes up to you alone. Follow it back because their owner might need help.”
11. Sharing Pads or Tampons
Kat shared that, in her opinion, the unwritten rule #1 of the girl code is that if a sister in need asks if you have a pad or tampon and you have any, you give it to her, no questions asked. Even if they are a total stranger.
A second shared, “If you are a father, you have that packed in your vehicle starting at age 10. Tampons and pads plus a brush, bobby pins, and hair ties. Be prepared to make her feel normal when her anxiety says it isn’t.”
Did this make you think of something you are thankful for because you already knew that specific unwritten rule?
I Can’t Believe I Didn’t Know This Until Now: Embarrassing Things People Learned Way Too Late In Life
I recently scrolled the internet’s front page when I saw this question, “What’s something you learned “embarrassingly late” in life?” Here are the top-voted responses.
14 All-Time Favorite Celebrities Exposed as Secret Jerks-Prepare to Be Surprised
I recently discovered an online discussion listing beloved celebrities who were revealed to have undesirable behind-the-scenes personas. As I read about the hidden sides of these public figures, my perceptions of them were flipped completely.
I Tried Living the European Way: 10 Luxuries That Left Me Wondering, ‘Why Don’t Americans Have This?’
The internet sure is a pool of information. I was scrolling the front page of the internet when I saw this question, “Americans, what do Europeans have every day that you see as a luxury?” the top-voted responses are quite interesting, so I had to share these with you.
Because what do they have every day that Americans don’t?
Did You Fall for These 10 Commonly Believed Myths? Science Sets the Record Straight
I recently saw this question online, “What is a popular belief that is scientifically proven wrong?”
Are you thinking of something you know now? Here are the responses that received the most upvotes.
Source: Reddit
Writer for Radical FIRE.
With a passion for crafting captivating travel and lifestyle content, Iris brings a unique perspective shaped by her personal journey in the care sector, coupled with a background in customer care and writing.
Fueling her wanderlust, Iris Maria Lucia recently had an unforgettable 8-month adventure in Southeast Asia, driven by her desire to savor the beauty of the world. Her experiences have not only broadened her horizons but also enriched her storytelling.
Join Iris Maria Lucia on a journey through her words through publications like Radical FIRE and MSN.
