Patience and consideration for other people are two of the most valuable qualities you can have.
However, you might act in ways that give off vibes of self-importance and entitlement, even if you don’t realise it. Some behaviours send the wrong message, making everyone think you think you’re the centre of the universe. If you’re guilty of any of these — and you care about how people see you — you’ll probably want to change things ASAP.
1. You rarely say “thank you.”
Source: Unsplash Skipping a simple “thank you” can come across as dismissive, even if you didn’t mean it that way. Gratitude goes a long way in showing appreciation for the efforts people make, no matter how small they seem. Make it a habit to acknowledge kindness—it costs nothing but means everything.
2. You expect people to adjust to your schedule.
If you’re always late or assume everyone should rearrange their plans to fit yours, it can feel like you don’t value their time. Respecting other people’s schedules shows that you see them as equals, not just background players in your life. A little flexibility goes a long way.
3. You interrupt or dominate conversations.
Talking over everyone or steering the discussion back to yourself can make people feel like their thoughts and feelings don’t matter. Being a good listener builds better relationships and makes you more approachable. Giving people space to share their thoughts shows that you value their voice as much as your own.
4. You complain about small inconveniences.
Everyone has bad days, but if you regularly vent about things like slow Wi-Fi or a lukewarm latte, it might come across as out of touch. Life isn’t perfect, and rolling with minor setbacks can make you seem more grounded and relatable. Plus, complaining less can improve your mood, too.
5. You assume rules don’t apply to you.
Skipping the line, parking in a restricted spot, or bending the rules might feel harmless, but it can send the message that you think you’re above everyone. Following the same guidelines as everyone else shows humility and respect for shared spaces and systems.
6. You expect favours without reciprocating.
Asking for help is fine, but if you rarely return the favour, people might feel taken advantage of. Reciprocity builds trust and strengthens relationships. Whether it’s offering your time or simply checking in on someone, small gestures show you care about give-and-take.
7. You rarely apologise when you’re wrong.
Refusing to admit when you’ve made a mistake can make you seem unwilling to take accountability. Owning up to errors doesn’t make you weak—it shows maturity and self-awareness. A sincere apology can mend fences and build respect.
8. You expect praise for things most people do anyway.
Doing the basics, like showing up on time or completing a task, doesn’t usually warrant applause. If you often need validation for everyday responsibilities, it can come across as needy or entitled. Focus on excelling for your own satisfaction, not just for recognition.
9. You assume other people will always pick up the slack.
If you tend to rely on other people to handle your share of the work—whether at home, in friendships, or at work—it can feel unfair to those around you. Pitching in without being asked shows reliability and respect for the team effort. Everyone appreciates someone who pulls their weight.
10. You talk down to people in service roles.
Being rude to wait staff, cashiers, or anyone in a customer service position can make you seem entitled and dismissive. Treating everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of their role, shows true character. A little patience and gratitude go a long way in making someone’s day—and improving how people see you.
11. You expect people to cater to your preferences.
If you often insist on doing things your way—whether it’s picking the restaurant, controlling the playlist, or deciding the plans—it can come across as selfish. Compromising on small things makes people feel valued and appreciated. Flexibility shows you’re willing to share the spotlight.
12. You’re overly critical of people’s choices.
If you frequently judge or comment on how other people live their lives, it can feel like you’re putting yourself on a pedestal. What does it matter to you, after all? Respecting people’s decisions, even if they differ from your own, shows maturity and encourages mutual understanding. Everyone appreciates a judgement-free zone.
13. You expect people to understand your struggles without acknowledging theirs.
If you frequently share your problems but rarely ask how people are doing, it can feel one-sided. Building connections means showing interest in other people’s experiences, not just focusing on your own. Mutual empathy strengthens relationships and shows you genuinely care.
14. You often assume you deserve special treatment.
Whether it’s expecting upgrades, shortcuts, or favours without earning them, this mindset can alienate people. Acknowledging that everyone deserves equal respect and opportunities helps you build stronger, more genuine connections. Hard work and humility are far more admirable than entitlement.
15. You take people’s kindness for granted.
If you rarely acknowledge or repay anyone’s generosity, it can make them feel unappreciated. Gratitude strengthens bonds and makes people more likely to want to help you in the future. Saying “thank you” and showing appreciation isn’t just polite—it’s the foundation of healthy, positive relationships.
