No one is an angel, and we all do things we’re not proud of sometimes.
However, there are certain ways of acting that are rude, inconsiderate, and inappropriate, and most mature, self-aware people would never be caught doing them. Sadly, these behaviours are pretty common, and most of the people who are guilty of them don’t have any shame about it — though they really should!
1. Bragging about not reading
Bragging about never picking up a book while spending hours scrolling through your phone says a lot about your priorities. It’s not just about missing out on knowledge; it’s a way of making ignorance seem trendy. In a world full of opportunities to learn and grow, celebrating intellectual laziness is hardly a good look. It reflects a refusal to engage with the wider world and leaves little room for meaningful conversations.
2. Recording strangers for social media
Filming someone without their permission just to get likes or laughs crosses serious boundaries. Whether it’s capturing someone’s bad day or mocking their appearance, this behaviour strips away dignity and respect. People aren’t props for entertainment, and treating them as such only normalises predatory behaviour. If you wouldn’t want it done to you, why do it to someone else?
3. Competitive exhaustion
Bragging about how little sleep you get or how overworked you are doesn’t make you a hero—it’s a red flag. Turning burnout into a badge of honour only fuels a toxic culture where wellbeing comes second to hustle. Chronic stress and fatigue aren’t achievements; they’re health risks. It’s time to stop glorifying this and start valuing balance instead.
4. Weaponised incompetence
Pretending not to know how to do something just to dodge responsibility isn’t harmless—it’s manipulative. Whether it’s leaving household chores undone or claiming you “just don’t get” a work task, this tactic forces everyone around you to pick up the slack. It’s disrespectful, lazy, and shows a lack of care for the people around you. Everyone deserves an equal share of effort in relationships and teamwork.
5. Public temper tantrums
Throwing a strop in a shop, restaurant, or office because things aren’t going your way is embarrassing for everyone involved. Losing it over minor inconveniences shows an alarming lack of self-control. Worse, it creates a horrible environment for staff and bystanders alike. Adults are supposed to model better behaviour—not act like toddlers who missed their nap.
6. Leaving cruel comments online
Source: Unsplash Spending your time leaving nasty comments on posts or articles isn’t just mean—it’s telling. Choosing to spread negativity across the internet reveals more about you than the person you’re targeting. The anonymity of the online world doesn’t excuse the harm this behaviour causes. Every cruel word leaves a lasting impact, and it’s all on you.
7. Chronic lateness
If you’re constantly running late, it sends a clear message: “My time is more important than yours.” Chronic tardiness shows a lack of respect for other people’s schedules and commitments. Sure, everyone has the odd mishap, but if it’s a pattern, it’s time to reevaluate how much you value other people’s time.
8. Performative activism
Sharing posts about causes you claim to care about without taking any real action doesn’t make you an activist. It makes you look insincere. Using social issues as a way to boost your image or brand trivialises the work being done by those actually committed to change. If you care, do more than just talk about it.
9. Financial ghosting
Borrowing money and then conveniently “forgetting” to pay it back while splashing out on holidays or new gadgets? Not a good look. Avoiding repayment damages trust and shows a complete lack of integrity. It’s not just about the money—it’s about the respect (or lack thereof) for the people who helped you out.
10. Relationship scorekeeping
Tallying every favour you’ve done or slight you’ve suffered poisons relationships faster than anything else. Treating friendships or partnerships like a competition removes the care and connection that make them meaningful. If you’re constantly counting, it’s time to ask yourself what you’re really trying to achieve.
11. Chronic interrupting
Talking over people isn’t just rude—it’s a way of saying their thoughts don’t matter as much as yours. If you’re someone who interrupts, consider how it feels to be on the receiving end. Letting someone finish what they’re saying shows respect and makes conversations more balanced and enjoyable for everyone.
12. Revenge sharing
Using someone’s personal details or messages against them after a fallout crosses every line of decency. It’s a breach of trust that can’t be undone. Just because a relationship ends doesn’t mean basic respect should go out the window. Revenge sharing says far more about you than the person you’re targeting—and none of it’s good.
13. Being an aggressive driver
Treating the road like your personal anger outlet puts everyone at risk. Tailgating, cutting people off, or blaring your horn in frustration doesn’t just make you look childish—it’s dangerous. Driving safely isn’t just about following rules; it’s about respecting the lives of everyone around you.
14. Ghosting on conversations while staying online
Leaving someone on read while happily posting on social media is a pretty clear sign you’re avoiding them. Instead of dodging difficult conversations, try being upfront—it’s far more respectful. Ignoring people only creates unnecessary anxiety and tension, which could be easily avoided with a bit of honesty.
15. Responsibility dodging
Constantly blaming other people for your mistakes or bad choices doesn’t just stunt your growth—it destroys trust. Refusing to take accountability might feel easier in the moment, but it prevents you from learning and improving. Maturity is owning up, taking responsibility, and doing better next time. Anything less is just passing the buck.
