Being a high-quality person doesn’t mean changing who you are — it’s all about recognising behavioural patterns that might be dragging you down.
We all have habits that can come off as annoying or counterproductive without realising it. If you want to be more respected and appreciated, there are certain habits you’ll want to kick to the kerb for good. It should be easy enough, and it really is that simple.
1. Interrupting people all the time
Cutting people off mid-sentence might seem harmless, but it signals that you don’t respect what they have to say. It makes conversations feel one-sided and can leave people feeling frustrated or dismissed. Practise active listening, and let people finish their thoughts before you speak. Respect for other people’s words shows respect for their value.
2. Bragging too much
There’s nothing wrong with sharing your achievements, but constantly bragging can make you come across as insecure. People value humility and authenticity more than endless self-promotion. Let your actions speak for themselves, and let people recognise your accomplishments naturally. Confidence doesn’t need to be shouted from the rooftops.
3. Apologising too much, especially when you’ve done nothing wrong
While it’s good to apologise when you’re genuinely wrong, saying “sorry” all the time weakens your presence. It makes you seem unsure of yourself and invites people to undervalue your contributions. Save apologies for when they’re truly necessary, and use more assertive language instead. Standing by your actions increases your value.
4. Complaining all the time about really minor things
Source: Unsplash No one enjoys being around someone who always finds something to gripe about. Chronic complaining drains energy and makes you seem ungrateful or negative. Instead, focus on finding solutions or highlighting positives where you can. People are drawn to those who bring constructive energy, not constant problems.
5. Needing to be right all the time
Insisting on winning every argument makes you seem arrogant and difficult to be around. It shows a lack of flexibility and humility. Sometimes, letting go of the need to be right creates better relationships and mutual respect. Value learning over being right, and people will value you more.
6. Talking more than you listen
If you dominate conversations without listening, people will feel like their voices don’t matter. Good communication is a two-way street, and listening shows respect and empathy. Give everyone the space to share their thoughts. You’ll be seen as someone who values and understands people, not just your own opinions.
7. Being overly defensive
If you react to every critique with defensiveness, it shows insecurity and resistance to growth. It closes the door to learning and makes you difficult to approach. Instead, accept feedback with grace and see it as an opportunity to improve. Being open to growth increases your value in both personal and professional spaces.
8. Needing constant validation
Constantly looking for praise or approval can make you seem needy or insecure. While everyone likes encouragement, relying on it too much can undermine your self-worth. Trust in your abilities and decisions, and seek validation from within. Self-assurance is far more attractive than constant reassurance-seeking.
9. One-upping people’s stories
When someone shares an experience, jumping in with your “bigger” or “better” story diminishes their moment. It can make you seem competitive or dismissive. Instead, show genuine interest in their experience. Acknowledging other people’s stories without needing to top them shows maturity and respect.
10. Being late to everything
Constantly running late sends a message that you don’t value other people’s time. It’s a habit that can damage trust and make you seem unreliable. Make an effort to be punctual or let people know if you’re running behind. Respecting everyone’s time shows that you value them, which increases your own value.
11. Gossiping about people
Talking negatively about people behind their backs may create temporary bonds, but it damages trust in the long run. People who gossip often end up being seen as untrustworthy or insecure. Choose to speak positively or not at all. Integrity and loyalty are far more valuable than spreading rumours.
12. Complimenting with backhanded remarks
Comments like “You look great — for once” or “Nice job — didn’t expect that from you” come off as passive-aggressive. These fake compliments chip away at trust and goodwill. Offer sincere, straightforward praise instead. Genuine kindness makes you someone other people want to be around.
13. Not admitting when you’re wrong
Refusing to admit mistakes makes you seem arrogant and immature. Everyone gets it wrong sometimes, and owning up shows strength and integrity. When you apologise sincerely and correct your course, people respect you more. Accountability is a key trait of high-value individuals.
14. Playing the victim too often
While everyone faces challenges, constantly positioning yourself as the victim can wear people down. It makes you seem powerless and unwilling to take control of your life. Instead, focus on how you can move forward and overcome obstacles. Resilience and self-empowerment are far more inspiring than helplessness.
