When I saw an article entitled “13 Common Behaviors That Make People Dislike You,” I wanted to check it out to make sure I wasn’t harboring any of the offensive traits! I’ve selected a few to highlight so we all know how to play well with others.

• Constantly interrupting

Interrupting others can signal a lack of respect for their thoughts and opinions. People don’t like feeling like their ideas are background noise. It’s a fast track to making them feel unappreciated and downright irritated. So, let’s ditch the interrupting and tune into some good old-fashioned respect, shall we?

• Being self-centered

When someone constantly steers conversations back to themselves or only perks up when it’s about their interests, it can leave others feeling like they’re unimportant. People want conversations to be a two-way street. They appreciate when others show genuine interest in what they have to say, just like they do. So, next time you catch yourself hogging the spotlight, remember to share it around a bit.

• Excessive complaining

While it’s natural to vent frustrations occasionally, constant complaining can be draining for those around you. It can create a negative atmosphere and make others reluctant to engage with you.

• Overbearing or controlling behavior

When someone is overly domineering in group settings or insists on controlling every little detail, it can make others feel like their input doesn’t matter. It’s like being stuck in a dictatorship when everyone wants to dance in a democracy. People crave autonomy and collaboration. They want to feel like their ideas are valued and that they’re part of the decision-making process. Next time you start to micromanage or dismiss others, please just don’t.

• Negativity

Consistently focusing on the negative aspects of situations or people can bring down the mood and make others hesitant to spend time with you. It’s like throwing a wet blanket on the party. People want to hang out with those who lift them up, not drag them down into a pit of despair. So, positivity and optimism are generally more attractive traits. Well duh.

• Lack of empathy

Empathy is what connects us on a deeper level, it’s what makes us feel seen and understood. It’s the secret sauce for building meaningful connections because it shows that we care about others’ experiences and perspectives. Ignoring or dismissing the feelings and experiences of others can make them feel invalidated and uncared for. So, next time you’re tempted to brush off someone’s feelings, try slipping on those empathy shoes instead. It’ll make all the difference.

• Arrogance or condescension

Displaying arrogance or talking down to others can come across as disrespectful and alienating. People prefer to interact with those who show humility and respect for everyone’s perspectives. Again, is it me or are these no-brainers?

• Gossiping or spreading rumors

Engaging in gossip or spreading rumors about others can damage reputations and erode trust. Gossip creates a toxic swamp where no one’s integrity is safe, and relationships sink faster than a lead balloon. So, next time you’re tempted to spill the tea, maybe stick to sipping it instead.

Contact Patty Kimerer with traits you enjoy in other people at [email protected].