Can You Learn Social Rules from a Magazine?

Since childhood, one strategy that worked for me has been reading magazines.  Whether or not I’m the target audience, it helps me understand what norms, rules, and trends are important in society.  I started as a child with my parents’ copies of National Geographic (not really helpful) and Better Homes and Gardens, and now tend to read Real Simple, Elle, InStyle, and Cookie.

I’ve been a Real Simple reader since their first issue many years ago because their tips and reviews are extremely practical and the magazine is designed with an uncluttered layout.  Many of their past articles are available online, and you can lose yourself for hours reading through their archives!

Here are some of my picks:

• 18 Common Phrases to Avoid in Conversation
• How to Navigate a Party
• How to Cook Pasta
• How to Dress for Any Occasion
• Social Deadlines

Note: No, I’m not being compensated by Real Simple!  In fact, I’ll be honest and say that as much as I love the magazine, $23.88/year exceeds my magazine subscription budget so I’m not a subscriber anymore.

(Illustration: Greg Clarke/Real Simple)