Everyone wants to be liked, but sometimes the desire is so strong that it makes you put up with things you really shouldn’t.
Boundaries are part of every healthy relationship, and making your deal-breakers clear doesn’t mean you’re unlikeable. In fact, anyone who has a problem with that isn’t worth having in your life. Nevertheless, if you’re desperate to be everyone’s best friend, chances are you tolerate these bad behaviours. It’s time to stop!
1. Constant lateness
You find yourself always waiting around for that one friend who’s never on time. Instead of speaking up, you brush it off with a “no worries” when they finally show up. Deep down, it bugs you, but you don’t want to rock the boat or seem uptight.
2. Unwanted physical contact
Maybe it’s that hugger at work or the relative who always pinches your cheeks. You grin and bear it, even though it makes you uncomfortable. You worry that saying something might hurt their feelings or make things awkward.
3. Offensive jokes
Someone cracks a joke that crosses the line, but you force a laugh or stay silent. You don’t want to be seen as the “sensitive” one or the party pooper. So you let it slide, even though it doesn’t sit right with you.
4. Being volunteered for things
Your friend signs you up for stuff without asking, or your coworker volunteers you for extra work. You go along with it to avoid conflict, even though it messes with your plans or adds to your stress.
5. Unsolicited advice
People constantly offer their two cents on your life choices, from your career to your relationships. You nod and smile, not wanting to seem defensive or ungrateful for their “wisdom.” Meanwhile, you’re wishing they’d mind their own business.
6. Gossip
You find yourself in conversations where other people are talking smack about mutual friends or coworkers. Instead of shutting it down or walking away, you stay quiet or even chime in, fearing you’ll be the next target if you don’t play along.
7. Flakiness
That friend who always cancels plans at the last minute or ghosts you regularly. You keep giving them chances because you don’t want to seem harsh or lose the friendship. But each time, it leaves you feeling disappointed and undervalued.
8. Boundary pushing
Someone consistently oversteps your boundaries, whether it’s borrowing things without asking or showing up unannounced. You let it slide to avoid confrontation, even though it leaves you feeling frustrated and disrespected.
9. One-sided conversations
You have that friend or acquaintance who talks non-stop about themselves but never asks about you. You listen patiently, not wanting to interrupt or seem uninterested. Inside, you’re craving a more balanced exchange.
10. Unfair criticism
Someone frequently criticises you in a way that feels unfair or harsh. Instead of defending yourself or setting boundaries, you take it silently. You worry that speaking up might make you look defensive or unable to take feedback.
11. Being taken for granted
You’re always the one organising events, giving rides, or lending a hand. People have come to expect it from you, and rarely reciprocate. You keep doing it because you don’t want to disappoint anyone or be seen as selfish.
12. Passive-aggressive behaviour
Someone in your life communicates their displeasure through subtle jabs or backhanded compliments. You pretend not to notice to avoid direct conflict. It leaves you feeling frustrated and walking on eggshells.
13. Uncomfortable social situations
You find yourself in social settings that make you uneasy, like loud parties or crowded events. Instead of leaving early or declining invitations, you stick it out. You don’t want to be seen as antisocial or a party pooper.
14. Unequal effort in relationships
You’re always the one reaching out, making plans, or keeping in touch. The other person rarely reciprocates, but you keep putting in the effort. You worry that if you stop, the relationship might fizzle out completely.
15. Disrespect of your time
People constantly interrupt you when you’re working or relaxing. They assume you’re always available. Instead of setting clear boundaries, you accommodate them to avoid seeming rude or unhelpful. Meanwhile, your own tasks and downtime suffer.
