8 Rules for a Civil Life

As we choose to be civil in our lives, here are 8 rules to help us:

1. Slow down and be present in your life.
2. Listen to the voice of empathy.
3. Keep a positive attitude.
4. Respect others and grant them plenty of validation.
5. Disagree graciously and refrain from arguing.
6. Get to know the people around you.
7. Pay attention to the small things.
8. Ask, don’t tell.

From P. M. Forni's book, The Civility Solution, p. 29.