10 “Made-Up” Societal Rules That People Think We Should Quit

We’ve all nodded along to social norms that don’t really make sense—but who made these rules, anyway? A new thread online went viral asking people to name etiquette “rules” that feel outdated, overrated, or just straight-up annoying. From double texting to napkin placement, here are the 10 “polite” habits people are ready to toss out the window... and honestly? They’ve got a point.

1.  The “no double texting” rule.  Some people think it’s too much to send someone multiple texts in a row . . . even if they think of something else AFTER they already sent one.

2.  Respect your elders.  One person says, “Some of the nastiest people I’ve ever met are over 70.  Good job, you’ve survived to be a dinosaur . . . but respect is earned, not given.”

3.  Expecting people working in food service to always be happy.  “It’s an exhausting, thankless, and stressful job that doesn’t pay enough.”  (I will say:  If you’re expecting a GOOD TIP, part of that IS working to make it a good experience for guests.)

4.  That women should be polite to be considered ladylike.  “Men are never held to these same standards.”

5.  It should be acceptable to respectfully decline gifts.  “Why do I have to PRETEND to like something, take it home, and save to re-gift later?”

6.  You can’t eat in front of your friends unless they are eating too.  “What if I’m really hungry, and they aren’t?  I’m not allowed to eat?”

7.  Everyone thinking that it is rude to read a book at a function or event. “Most of the people are ignoring everyone on their phones . . . so what difference does it make?”  (Well, that isn’t cool either.  It depends on the setting, but books do seem like a bigger disengagement than scrolling Instagram.)

8.  That it’s unacceptable to date a friend’s ex.  “Just because it didn’t work out for them doesn’t mean it shouldn’t work out for you.”

9.  Placing a napkin on your lap.  “Forget it.  It lands on the floor 99 out of 100 times.  (Careful)  And my boobs stop all the crumbs anyway.”

10.  Blessing people when they sneeze.  “Stop calling attention to them . . . especially in the middle of meetings.”  Someone else added, “Why don’t we bless farts.  I’d be on board with that.”