We all have moments where we feel like we deserve special treatment or that the world owes us something.
But if this feeling becomes a pattern, it can start to impact our relationships and what people think of us. With that in mind, here are some of the signs that you might be acting a bit entitled, and why it’s important to check yourself.
1. You expect special treatment wherever you go.
Do you feel like you should always get the best table at a restaurant, the first-class upgrade on a flight, or preferential treatment in line? While it’s nice to be treated well, expecting it as your due is a sign of entitlement. Remember, everyone deserves to be treated with respect, not just you.
2. You rarely say “thank you” or express gratitude.
Taking things for granted is a hallmark of entitlement. If you find yourself rarely expressing gratitude for the things people do for you, it might be time to check your attitude. A simple “thank you” goes a long way in showing appreciation and building stronger relationships.
3. You’re quick to complain and criticise when things don’t go your way.
Entitled people often have a hard time accepting when things don’t go according to their plan. They’re quick to complain, criticise, and blame other people when things don’t turn out as expected. Remember, setbacks and disappointments are a part of life. Instead of complaining, focus on finding solutions and learning from the experience.
4. You believe your problems are more important than anyone else’s.
Everyone faces challenges in life, but entitled people tend to believe that their problems are more significant or deserving of attention than anyone else’s. This can lead to a lack of empathy and compassion for other people, as well as a tendency to dismiss or minimise their struggles. Remember, everyone’s experiences are valid, and your problems are not inherently more important than anyone else’s.
5. You have a sense of superiority and look down on people.
Source: Unsplash Feeling superior to everyone else is a classic sign of entitlement. You might think you’re smarter, more talented, or more deserving than those around you. This attitude can be alienating and create tension in your relationships. Remember, everyone has unique strengths and weaknesses, and there’s no reason to put yourself above everyone else.
6. You’re always asking for favours but rarely reciprocate.
Source: Unsplash Taking without giving is a hallmark of entitlement. If you’re always asking for favours, borrowing things, or expecting other people to go out of their way for you, but rarely reciprocate, it’s time to re-evaluate your behaviour. Relationships are a two-way street, and it’s important to give as much as you take.
7. You have difficulty accepting feedback or criticism.
Source: Unsplash Entitled people often have a fragile ego and can’t handle any kind of criticism, even if it’s constructive. They might get defensive, angry, or dismissive when someone points out their flaws or mistakes. Remember, feedback is an opportunity for growth and improvement. Instead of getting defensive, try to listen and learn from it.
8. You feel like you’re owed things without having to earn them.
Source: Unsplash Entitled people often feel like they deserve things without having to put in the effort or work required to achieve them. They might expect promotions at work without proving their worth, or believe they should receive special privileges without earning them. Remember, success and rewards usually come from hard work and dedication, not from a sense of entitlement.
9. You have trouble saying “no” and setting boundaries.
Source: Unsplash Entitled people often struggle with setting boundaries and saying “no” to requests, even when it’s not in their best interest. They might feel obligated to please people or fear missing out on opportunities, leading them to overcommit and spread themselves too thin. Remember, it’s okay to say “no” and prioritise your own needs and well-being.
10. You compare yourself to other people and feel resentful when they succeed.
Source: Unsplash Instead of celebrating other people’s wins, entitled people might feel envious or resentful, believing they deserve the same recognition or rewards. This comparison game can be toxic and lead to feelings of bitterness and inadequacy. Remember, everyone’s journey is different, and comparing yourself to anyone else is a recipe for unhappiness.
11. You’re always trying to “one-up” people in conversations and experiences.
Source: Unsplash Entitled people often feel the need to be the centre of attention and outdo everyone else. They might brag about their accomplishments, exaggerate their experiences, or try to one-up people in conversations. This behaviour can be off-putting and make it difficult to connect with people on a genuine level.
12. You have a hard time admitting when you’re wrong or making mistakes.
Source: Unsplash Owning up to your mistakes and apologising can be difficult for everyone, but entitled people tend to have an even harder time with it. They might try to deflect blame, make excuses, or minimise the impact of their actions. Remember, everyone makes mistakes, and admitting them is a sign of maturity and humility, not weakness.
13. You feel like rules don’t apply to you.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s cutting in line, ignoring traffic laws, or bending the rules at work, entitled people often feel like they’re above the law. This sense of exemption can be dangerous and lead to conflict with people. Remember, rules are there for a reason, and respecting them is a sign of consideration for everyone else and for society as a whole.
14. You have difficulty delaying gratification and want everything now.
Source: Unsplash Patience is not a virtue for entitled people. They want what they want, and they want it now. They might have trouble saving money, waiting for opportunities, or working towards long-term goals. This impatience can lead to impulsive decisions and missed opportunities for growth and development.
15. You’re always looking for the easy way out and avoid challenges.
Source: Unsplash Entitled people often prefer the path of least resistance. They might avoid challenges, take shortcuts, or look for ways to get what they want without having to put in the effort. This mentality can hinder their growth and prevent them from reaching their full potential. Remember, challenges are opportunities for learning and growth, and overcoming them can be incredibly rewarding.
16. You feel entitled to other people’s time and attention.
Source: Unsplash Entitled people often feel like they deserve other people’s undivided attention and support, even when it’s inconvenient or unreasonable. They might interrupt conversations, demand immediate responses to their messages, or expect people to drop everything to cater to their needs. Remember, everyone’s time is valuable, and respecting other people’s boundaries is crucial for healthy relationships.
