1. Respect First, Always

Speak to each other as if you’re sitting together over a cup of tea (or wine, no judgment). Disagree if you must—but no name-calling, sarcasm, or personal digs. Please avoid publicly criticising, mocking, or speaking negatively about other people. Not only does it hurt the group spirit, but in Germany, this can also cross legal lines under §§ 185–187 StGB (Beleidigung, üble Nachrede, Verleumdung). Let’s keep things kind, respectful, and above board — that’s the heart of our community.

2. Tone is Everything

Text doesn’t show tone well. So:
Avoid all caps and aggressive punctuation (!!!)
If something could be misread as rude, it probably will be.

3. Pause, Don’t Pounce

If a conversation is heating up:
Stop. Breathe. De-escalate or take a break.
Remember, responding calmly is more powerful than reacting defensively.

4. Use Emojis Thoughtfully

Emojis can help express tone, but they can also be misread. Avoid using emojis that might come across as mocking, passive-aggressive, or hostile. If an emoji could be interpreted as rude, it’s best to leave it out. 
Think of emojis as seasoning—used well, they add flavour; used carelessly, they ruin the dish.

5. No Tag Teams or Ambushes

This isn’t Survivor SA. Don’t gang up on anyone or stir the pot. If you see tension brewing, DM an admin, not the group.

6. Listen with Generosity

We all bring different styles, cultures, and histories to this group, which is what makes it beautiful. But it also means we need to give each other the benefit of the doubt, pause before reacting, and, where possible, seek clarity instead of conflict.

7. Admins = Gardeners, Not Police

We’re here to help things grow and stay healthy, not to rule with a sjambok. However, if the group becomes unsafe, we will intervene.

8. Include, Don’t Exclude

Inside jokes, in-groups, or passive-aggressive comments make people feel left out. Let’s build community, not cliques.

9. When in Doubt, Take it Private

Got beef? Sort it out in DMs—not in front of the whole group.

10. Bring the Ubuntu

We’re here to uplift each other, not compete. Kindness, encouragement, and humour are always welcome. Be the reason someone smiles today.

11. Different Opinions? Totally Normal.

We’re a diverse group of strong, thoughtful people, which means we won’t always agree. And that’s okay!
You don’t have to see eye to eye to show respect. Let’s listen with open hearts, respond with kindness, and remember: disagreement is not disrespect.

12. Skip the Politics & Tax Advice

Politics can be divisive, and tax advice can be illegal. Let’s steer clear of both.
Discussions about politics often evoke strong emotions and divert attention from our goal of creating a supportive and inclusive space. And when it comes to taxes, only licensed professionals and some direct family members may give tax advice in Germany. This is regulated by law under the Steuerberatungsgesetz (StBerG) § 2. 
So, if someone asks about taxes, kindly direct them to a certified tax advisor (Steuerberater). We’d hate for anyone to get in trouble just for trying to help!

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If Rules Are Broken

Admins will gently remind you of the guidelines. Repeated issues may result in a time-out or removal. It’s not personal—it’s about keeping our space peaceful. 
Members who repeatedly cause tension, ignore group guidelines, or disrupt the group’s cohesion may be removed. This includes behaviour that feels aggressive, dismissive, or divisive. We reserve the right to protect the overall well-being of the group.
WhatsApp’s guidelines make it clear that group admins have the authority to manage membership. There’s no obligation to keep a member.