Being conscious of your surroundings also applies to MP3 players such as IPods and hand-held gaming devices such as Nintendo DS and PSP.

If you are out in a public place, none of these devices should be loud enough for those around you to hear.  For the gaming devices, you can turn the sound off or you could use headphones.

Remember that manners are all about having the other person feel acknowledged, cared for, and respected.

If you are at an event, visiting friends or relatives, or at a restaurant, keep these devices in your pocket or back in the car.  Your attention is supposed to be on the current event.  If you have your nose in a game or are ignoring everyone because you are listening to music, those around you certainly don’t feel acknowledged, cared for, or respected!