No one is perfect, of course, but some people have more personality flaws than others.
There are a lot of qualities that you can’t change, but just as many that you can — and it’s those ones that matter the most. Here are some of the most off-putting traits that will mean you don’t make (or keep) many friends in life. Do you really want to live that way?
1. They never let people finish what they’re saying before interrupting.
Picture this: you’re mid-sentence, sharing an exciting story, and suddenly, they jump in, hijacking the conversation with their own anecdote. It’s like they can’t wait for their turn to talk, leaving you feeling unheard and unimportant. Constant interruptions signal a lack of respect and consideration for other people, making it hard to build meaningful connections. It’s important to practice active listening and allow people the space to express themselves fully.
2. They always have to be right.
We all enjoy a good debate, but there’s a difference between healthy discussion and an unwavering need to be right all the time. If someone insists on having the final word, dismisses your opinions, or refuses to acknowledge other perspectives, it can create a frustrating and exhausting dynamic. It’s important to be open-minded, willing to learn from people, and acknowledge that there can be multiple valid viewpoints.
3. They constantly complain about everything.
A bit of venting is normal, but if someone is perpetually complaining about their job, their partner, the weather, or just life in general, it can be a real drain on your energy. It’s hard to stay positive and upbeat around someone who sees the world through a negative lens. A bit of optimism and gratitude can go a long way in making someone more pleasant to be around.
4. They’re always talking about themselves.
Source: Unsplash It’s natural to share your own experiences and stories, but if someone dominates every conversation with tales of their own accomplishments, problems, or opinions, it can be a major turn-off. It’s important to show genuine interest in other people, ask questions, and actively listen. A balanced conversation involves give-and-take, not a one-person show.
5. They’re overly critical and judgmental.
Source: Unsplash We all have our own values and beliefs, but constantly judging and criticising people for their choices or lifestyles can be alienating. It creates a sense of negativity and makes people feel uncomfortable and unwelcome. It’s important to practice tolerance, acceptance, and understanding, even if you don’t agree with someone’s choices.
6. They’re never on time.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s a social gathering or a work meeting, consistently being late shows a lack of respect for other people’s time. It can be frustrating and disruptive, and it makes people feel like their time isn’t valued. Making an effort to be punctual is a simple but important way to show consideration and build trust.
7. They’re always trying to one-up everyone.
Healthy competition can be motivating, but constantly trying to outdo people can be tiresome and off-putting. If someone always has to have the better story, the bigger achievement, or the more impressive possessions, it can create a sense of insecurity and competition in relationships. It’s important to celebrate your own accomplishments without feeling the need to tear anyone else down.
8. They’re passive-aggressive.
Passive-aggressive behaviour is a sneaky way of expressing anger or frustration without directly addressing the issue. It can involve backhanded compliments, sarcasm, or subtle digs. It creates a sense of tension and confusion, and it makes it difficult to have open and honest communication. It’s important to address conflicts directly and express your feelings in a healthy and constructive way.
9. They gossip about everyone.
Sharing a bit of harmless gossip can be a way to bond with people, but if someone is constantly talking about other people behind their backs, it can be a major red flag. It creates a sense of distrust and makes people wonder if they’re also being gossiped about when they’re not around. It’s important to focus on positive interactions and avoid spreading rumours or negativity about people.
10. They’re always borrowing things, but never return them.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s a book, a tool, or a fiver for lunch, borrowing things and never returning them is a quick way to annoy people. It shows a lack of respect for other people’s property and a disregard for their feelings. It’s important to be responsible and considerate, and to return borrowed items promptly and in good condition.
11. They’re always flaking on plans.
Source: Unsplash Making plans and then cancelling at the last minute is a frustrating habit that can damage relationships. It makes people feel unimportant and like their time isn’t valued. If you consistently flake on plans, it can make it hard for people to trust you or want to make future plans with you. It’s important to be reliable and follow through on your commitments, or communicate clearly if you need to cancel.
12. They’re always trying to get something from you.
Whether it’s a favour, a free meal, or a connection to someone important, if someone is always trying to get something from you without offering anything in return, it can feel exploitative. It’s important to have balanced relationships where both parties contribute and support each other. If you feel like someone is only interested in you for what they can get from you, it’s okay to set boundaries and prioritize your own needs.
13. They’re overly competitive.
A bit of friendly competition can be fun, but if someone is always trying to win at everything, even at other people’s expense, it can be off-putting. It can create a tense and uncomfortable atmosphere, and it can make people feel like they’re constantly being judged and compared. It’s important to be a good sport, be happy for other people, and focus on having fun rather than winning at all costs.
14. They’re constantly looking for validation and attention.
Source: Unsplash Everyone needs a bit of validation and attention from time to time, but if someone is constantly fishing for compliments, looking for approval, or trying to be the centre of attention, it can be draining for those around them. It’s important to have a healthy sense of self-worth and to be able to find validation from within, rather than relying on external sources.
15. They lack empathy and compassion.
One of the most off-putting personality traits is a lack of empathy and compassion. If someone is unable to understand or relate to other people’s feelings, it can be difficult to connect with them on a deeper level. It’s important to be able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, to feel what they’re feeling, and to offer support and understanding. Empathy is a key ingredient in building strong and meaningful relationships.
