We all have our quirks, but some habits are just plain annoying, especially when they start to affect your relationships.
If any of these behaviours sound familiar, it might be time to rethink how you’re coming across. Here’s a look at what you might want to stop doing, starting now.
1. You’re always banging on about how busy you are.
I know life gets hectic, but constantly broadcasting how slammed you are isn’t doing you any favours. It makes you seem like you can’t handle your time well, and honestly, it’s a bit of a downer. Instead of wearing your packed schedule as a badge, try managing your time better—and keep the “I’m so busy” talk to a minimum.
2. You interrupt like it’s your job.
Cutting people off mid-sentence doesn’t make you look sharp; it just makes you look rude. Good conversation is a two-way street, and when you’re always jumping in, it shows you’re not really listening. Letting someone finish their thought not only makes them feel respected, but you might actually get a fresh perspective out of it.
3. One-upping everyone is your default mode.
If your first instinct is to trump someone’s story or accomplishment with one of your own, stop. Not everything’s a competition, and constantly trying to outdo everyone just makes you look insecure. Be happy for someone else’s wins without turning it into a “who did it better” contest.
4. You’ve got strong opinions about everything.
Having strong views is fine, but chiming in on every topic like you’re an expert? Not so much. It’s okay to not have something to say all the time, and sometimes saying “I’m not sure about that” shows more wisdom than throwing out an uninformed opinion.
5. You’re always late.
Showing up late isn’t fashionable—it’s disrespectful. Constant tardiness signals that you don’t value other people’s time. If punctuality’s an issue, try setting your watch a little ahead or planning extra time for the unexpected. Just make being on time a priority.
6. You’re a walking, talking know-it-all.
Correcting people or constantly showing off how much you know doesn’t make you look smart—it makes you look like a jerk. There’s a big difference between sharing useful information and coming off like a know-it-all. Let other people have the floor sometimes.
7. You’re glued to your phone.
Being constantly on your phone, especially during conversations, is just bad manners. It sends the message that whatever’s on your screen is more important than the person in front of you. Put it away and actually engage with the people you’re with.
8. You tend to mansplain.
Explaining things in a condescending way, especially to women, isn’t helpful—it’s annoying. Before you launch into an explanation, make sure the other person hasn’t already got it covered. You’re not the only one who knows stuff, after all.
9. You always play devil’s advocate.
We all know someone who argues just for the sake of it. If that’s you, try reading the room a bit better. Sometimes people just want to vent or have a simple conversation without it turning into a debate. Save the contrarian act for when it really matters.
10. You overshare way too much.
There’s such a thing as too much information. If you find yourself spilling every personal detail to whoever will listen, maybe dial it back. Not everyone needs—or wants—to hear every last thing about your life.
11. You’re a chronic complainer.
If you’re always moaning about something, you’re probably not much fun to be around. Complaining might make you feel better, but it drags everyone else down. Try focusing on the good stuff now and again—it’ll lighten the mood for everyone.
12. You dominate every conversation.
If you find yourself doing most of the talking in every interaction, give other people a chance. Conversation’s a two-way street, and hogging all the airtime is a guaranteed way to bore and frustrate the people around you. Step back and listen—you might be surprised what other people have to say.
13. You always try to fix things.
Not every problem needs a solution—sometimes people just want to be heard. If you’re constantly jumping in with advice, take a pause. Ask if they actually want help or if they just need someone to listen. Sometimes being supportive means saying less, not more.
14. You always make it about you.
If every conversation eventually circles back to your experiences, it’s time to stop. It’s self-centred, and people will catch on. Practise genuine curiosity in people—ask questions, listen, and let someone else be the star of the conversation for once.
15. Your humour always puts someone down.
If your jokes are always at someone else’s expense, you’re not being clever, you’re being mean. Banter’s fun, but constant digs just make you look like a bully. Find humour that doesn’t involve cutting people down—you’ll still get laughs, but with a lot more goodwill.
16. You overpromise and underdeliver.
Source: Unsplash If you’re always making big promises and then not following through, you’re slowly eroding trust. People respect those who do what they say they will. Be realistic about what you can commit to, and always aim to deliver—even if it’s in small ways.
