On Being Poised in Speech and Manners

We all have the desire to be poised in every situation in speech and manner. Sadly, having poise and mannerism is not taught in schools today.

Back in Colonial America, it was proper for a young girl to have instruction in penmanship, dancing, as well as the art of serving tea. The girl was also instructed during the tea how to have proper speech and mannerism.  In the same manner, In Victorian England a young woman’s education was not complete without instruction of refined mannerism. This is how to walk, talk, dress, and behave in certain social events.

So how can we learn how to be more poised in speech and manner?

I will give you some resources and advise  that has helped me to better my poise and manners.

1. Read etiquette books. My favorites for developing poise, manners, and character are “Beautiful Girlhood” by  Karen Andreole, and “How to be a Lady” by  Harvey Newcomb. These books are easy to read and perfect for teaching younger girls how to become poised and elegant young women.
2. Learn from others and from your mistakes. Oftentimes we don’t know that we are being ungraceful in our manners. About a month ago, when I was helping a customer at work, she gently reprimanded me for using “What” instead of “Excuse me?”  when she was asking for something, and I didn’t hear her.  I didn’t even know I was using that word so frequently, much less at work.  Now that she had reprimanded me for using that word, I realized how much I used that word, as well as others around me. It is suffice to say I no longer use that word, and if I do, I immediately remember the reproof of that older lady, and try not to say it again.
3. Be inspired.  Have you ever met a young women who had a air of elegance? Her clothes had good taste, her hair was done in accordance to her dress, she was always gracious and kind, a picture of poise and elegance. I know we have all come across a person like this. The key is to be inspired by them, but not to try to copy them, as everyone has their own unique sense of elegance that goes with their personality.

I hope this was inspiring and helpful to you!

Thanks for stopping by, and I will see you in the next post!

Alyssa