A bit of self-awareness and consideration goes a long way in social situations.
While you shouldn’t have to change who you are, putting a bit of effort into making sure the people around you feel comfortable is the least you can do. However, if you’re guilty of these bad habits, you’re likely making things unnecessarily awkward and need to make a change.
1. Invading personal space
Standing too close to someone during conversations makes people feel physically uncomfortable. A good rule is to maintain about an arm’s length of distance in most situations. This space allows people to feel secure while engaging in conversation. Pay attention to subtle cues like someone stepping back, as this often means they need more personal space.
2. Interrupting consistently
Cutting people off mid-sentence shows a lack of respect for their thoughts and ideas, and it makes people feel unheard and undervalued. Waiting for natural pauses in conversation demonstrates respect and genuine interest. Practice active listening by focusing on understanding rather than waiting for your turn to speak.
3. Oversharing personal details
Revealing too much personal information too quickly can create awkward situations. Not everyone is prepared or willing to handle intimate details about your life. Building trust gradually leads to more meaningful connections. Consider whether the information you’re sharing is appropriate for your relationship level with that person.
4. Avoiding eye contact
Looking away constantly during conversations makes people feel dismissed or unimportant. While intense staring isn’t necessary, natural eye contact shows engagement and respect. Finding a balance helps people feel acknowledged. When speaking with multiple people, shift your gaze naturally between participants to include everyone.
5. Speaking too loudly
Using an unnecessarily loud voice in regular conversations draws unwanted attention, and this behaviour can make people around you feel embarrassed or anxious. Matching your volume to the setting shows social awareness. Notice how those around you are speaking and adjust your volume accordingly.
6. Dismissing boundaries
Ignoring when people express their limits or preferences creates tension. That includes touching without permission or pressing issues after someone has declined. Respecting stated boundaries builds trust and comfort. Remember that boundaries may change depending on the situation, so stay attentive to verbal and non-verbal cues.
7. Dominating conversations
Taking over every discussion without letting anyone else contribute pushes people away. A conversation should be a balanced exchange of ideas and experiences. Making space for other voices creates more engaging interactions. Try asking questions and showing genuine interest in what other people have to share.
8. Chronic complaining
Constant negativity drains the energy from social interactions. While sharing struggles is normal, endless complaints make people want to avoid your company. Finding balance in conversation topics keeps relationships healthy. Try to match every negative observation with a positive one to maintain perspective.
9. Making inappropriate jokes
Humour that makes light of sensitive topics or targets specific groups creates a hostile environment. What seems funny to you might be hurtful to other people. Being mindful of your audience shows emotional intelligence. If someone doesn’t laugh or seems uncomfortable, take note and adjust your approach.
10. Neglecting basic hygiene
Poor personal care can make close interactions unpleasant for everyone. Regular grooming and cleanliness are basic courtesies in social settings. Taking care of yourself shows respect for those around you. Remember that strong perfumes or colognes can also make people uncomfortable, so moderation is key.
11. Using aggressive body language
Crossed arms, pointed fingers, or looming over people sends threatening signals. These physical positions make people feel defensive and unsafe. Open, relaxed postures help create comfortable interactions. Being aware of your physical presence can significantly impact how approachable you seem to everyone else.
12. Phone addiction during interactions
Constantly checking your phone while someone is speaking signals that you don’t value their time — it makes people feel unimportant and dismissed. Giving full attention shows respect and builds stronger connections. Consider putting your phone on silent and keeping it out of sight during social interactions.
13. Forcing unwanted advice
Offering solutions when someone hasn’t asked for help can feel condescending. Sometimes people just want to be heard rather than fixed. Waiting to be asked for input shows emotional awareness. Try asking “Would you like suggestions?” before offering advice.
14. Making everything competitive
Source: Unsplash Turning every situation into a contest creates unnecessary tension. Not every story needs to be topped, and not every achievement needs to be compared. Allowing people to share without competition builds better relationships. Focus on celebrating other people’s successes without feeling the need to match or exceed them.
15. Spreading gossip
Sharing private information about absent people breaches trust and creates anxiety. Those present will wonder what you say about them when they’re not around. Keeping confidences builds a reputation for trustworthiness. When tempted to share gossip, ask yourself if you would feel comfortable saying the same thing with that person present.
