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About this quote

What does it mean?
Unspoken social rules create anxiety and exclusion because they are unclear but strictly enforced.
In plain terms
Hidden rules about how to dress make people feel watched and judged.
What can you take from it?
Explicit rules are better than vague expectations.

Where it applies

  • workplace interactions
  • school environments
  • social gatherings

Putting it to work

  • Clarify dress codes
  • Ask questions early

Questions to consider

  • When do unwritten rules help or harm?
  • How do you navigate unclear social expectations?

Another view

Some unwritten rules help social cohesion without needing explicit instruction.

More from Douglas Coupland

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  2. Chances are you feel superior to almost everyone you work with - however, they probably feel the same way about you.

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  3. If you can control your emotions, chances are you don't have too many.

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