To "follow the rules" means to abide by a set of guidelines, standards or protocols that have been established for proper conduct or behavior. It implies adhering to the expectations and norms laid down by an authority figure such as a parent, teacher, boss, government agency or organization. This phrase can also refer to following social conventions and etiquette in order to maintain harmony within society. In essence, "to follow the rules" means conforming one's behavior to accepted standards of conduct, whether they are written down or not.