Handshake Protocol
Offer a firm, brief handshake with direct eye contact and a genuine smile. A proper handshake should last no more than three seconds and involve the entire hand, not merely fingertips.
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The Latest Episode - The Paul Truesdell Podcast
Daily Reminders
Good morning, afternoon, or evening, welcome to TruEtiquette, a daily reminder about all aspects of etiquette.
Before I begin, please know that TruEtiquette comes from a place of genuine respect, not judgment. You see, every minute of every day, everyone learns together, and these gentle reminders will help all of us navigate our increasingly complex social world with a return to traditional and old school respect for one another with weebit more class.
Everything moves faster than ever before, and we sometimes forget that etiquette isn't about rigid rules or social snobbery; no, it's simply about making others feel comfortable and respected. Think of these daily reminders as principles, tools if you will, for building stronger relationships, advancing professionally, and creating harmony in every interaction.
The profound truth is the fact that good manners are fundamentally acts of kindness. Nothing more or less. Whether we're holding a door, responding promptly to invitations, or simply putting our phones away during conversations, demonstrating that we value the people around us speaks volumes.
Consider your daily interactions: the barista serving your morning coffee, colleagues in meetings, family members at dinner, and strangers in elevators. Each moment presents an opportunity to either elevate or diminish someone's day through our choices.
The beauty of proper etiquette lies in its universality. Regardless of background, profession, or circumstances, most of us appreciate being treated with dignity; criminals, drunks, and crazies are the exception. When we consistently practice courtesy, we create ripple effects that transform entire communities.
These aren't outdated customs from a bygone era - they're timeless principles adapted for modern life. From digital communication to workplace dynamics, from family gatherings to public spaces, the core remains unchanged: treat others as you wish to be treated and expect the same in return, without exception (The Truesdell Golden Rule). Add in an extra measure of thoughtfulness, and life is good.
Always remember and never forget that developing social grace is a lifelong journey. Nobody expects perfection; however, we can all strive for improvement. Each small act of consideration - remembering names, expressing genuine gratitude, listening without interrupting, observing proper dining etiquette, and wearing attire with a touch of style - builds character while brightening someone else's world.
As you move through today, challenge yourself to be more mindful of etiquette. Notice opportunities to demonstrate appropriate behavior and relevant courtesies. Your efforts not only reflect well on you but may inspire others to elevate their own behavior.
Join us tomorrow at PaulTruesdell.com for another gentle reminder about navigating our shared social landscape with manly or womanly grace, wisdom, and genuine civility restored, one step at a time.
Business
Hegseth Warns of ‘Devastating Consequences’ Should China Seek to ‘Conquer’ Taiwan - That is likely a massive understatement.
America's Self-Inflicted Tech Challenge
Decades of federal funding flowing to China-both directly through trade policies and indirectly through corporate partnerships-created the very technological competitor we now struggle to contain. While mainstream outlets like the Wall Street Journal frame this as a failing containment strategy, they miss the deeper issue of how globalist economic policies enabled China's rise in solar, EVs, and drones. The real question isn't whether our hobbling efforts are working, but whether we're prepared to admit that our own financial backing helped build the rival we're now trying to slow down.