Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Nomadiquette


Nomadiquette- is a code of behavior that defines expectations for social behavior according to non-contemporary nomadic groups.

Being a newbie to the nomadic lifestyle, I personally have had anxiety about being accepted and welcomed by the nomadic groups that I encounter. It was something about knowing or learning the non-spoken law of the ever changing land. Since the beginning of our transition into full-timers I have learned some rules, but realized that there are others that I (and some others) wish existed. Here is a wish list of nomadiquette. Thank you to all of the FB groups members that helped with input!

Nomadiquette 

1. Respect other's right to privacy and personal space. 
Just because you have no permanent land doesn't mean you don't want or deserve personal or private space. Majority of full-timers enjoy fellowship but not at the cost of privacy. Entering someones yard or site is similar to entering someones house...don't do it without permission.

2. Respect other's right to be different. 
We have our choice to travel in common. However, our reasons, resources, beliefs, customs, habits, hobbies, parenting styles, experiences, outlooks, attitudes, race, religion and whatever else may not be common. Discussing these things as a form of education, understanding and/or reaching out are fine but don't use these differences as opportunity to judge, belittle, preach, talk down or convert people. They have as much right to be different as you do.

3. POLITELY take your problems to the source. 
No one likes a tattle tale. No one can solve a problem they don't know exists. If you wish for a problem to have a solution, try talking to the source before any other action. Simply addressing the person(s) and having a non-accusatory conversation can alleviate majority of problems that arise. Most people would have no problem addressing the issue, if only you would politely ask.

4. When it is possible, help others. When you have information/ knowledge, share it.
There are moments when you see people reaching into the universe for information...You know the signs, confused look on their face, looking around with hand(s) on chin or hip, scratching their head.... Sometimes it is a simple answer to a question, suggestion or reference that is needed. We all have and will find ourselves in the position of needing assistance. Five minutes from your day could make the absolute difference in someone else's. Don't information hoard. If you find some great group, site, tutorial, recipe, attraction, service...then share the knowledge!   If there is some information or knowledge that could help them or save them a lot of wasted time, energy, money, pain... then share knowledge.

5. Clean after yourself and pet. 
No one likes other people's or pets nastiness. Use courtesy when using common areas by cleaning after your self, children and pets. Throw your trash away, clean the lint trap, flush the toilet and pick up pet poop.

6. Leave parenting to the parents. 
Unless you see a child engaging in an activity that could cause bodily harm/ danger leave the parenting to the parents.( i.e. running with a butcher knife, near a cliff,  near a rattlesnake) If you see something that alarms you, speak with the parent and voice your concern. BUT, understand that your concern may not be a concern to them and respect their right to parent. This goes for pet parents too. We all have different views of pet care. Unless the pet is being abused or tortured, don't judge or impose your pet care beliefs on others. (crates, tethers, inside/outside)

7. Introduce yourself first (not your blog, business, website) 
Nomads love to support other nomads' ventures. But more important is the opportunity to meet, learn, and experience someone/thing new. There is more life value in meeting people rather than clients or customers. If during conversation business or blogs come up, fine but don't introduce yourself for the sole purpose of advertisement. We got away from mainstream so we could experience life, not be bombarded with advertisements.

8. Don't ASSUME. 
If the Rv's a rockin', ASSUME their are kids inside! (what did you think Stephanie Mulac was going to say?) Things can seem to be something entirely different from what they actually are. People can jump to conclusions, react to misunderstandings and pass judgement on people because they did not see the entire picture or fully understand a situation. If you have a question, ask. If there is a matter that you feel you must address, before taking any action consider: a)whether action is necessary.  b) whether it is your place to take action. c)whether the action you take is in violation of nomatiquette rules 1, 2, 3, 6 or campground rules.

9. Don't Gossip.
No one likes to be the subject of gossip. No one likes their business being spread around. Whether you are in person or online, direct or indirect- RESPECT other people's right to privacy. Only share information that you have been asked or given permission to share.

10. If you can't SMILE and enjoy where you are, move.  
We all want to enjoy life! As people who travel for a lifestyle, there are always other places to see, visit and experience. If along the journey you find a bad experience leave it behind on the way to the next great experience because there are plenty. Some situations, places or weather just don't suit us or are unpleasant. Don't allow the negativity to ruin your day, week, month, year! The best part of this lifestyle is if you are unhappy with your surroundings unplug and move. There is somewhere out there where you can SMILE.
Thank you to the wonderful groups that help(ed) me when I am(was) lost:

And thank you again to the people who contributed to this post by commenting in the Facebook groups. Check out their blogs:

1 comment:

  1. This is a great list! Most importantly, it addresses potential problems with common sense and courtesy. As a dog owners, I get especially irritated when people don't clean up after their pets, bc it reflects badly on all of us. We've only been OTR since last December, but I've found that common sense, common courtesy, and benefit of the doubt make life so much more enjoyable.

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Thank you for your input! It is greatly appreciated.