Life is too short to be tiptoeing around other people’s feelings all the time, but it’s also about basic human decency.
There’s a difference between being upfront and being downright disrespectful. It’s a delicate balance, but knowing where the line is can make all the difference in your relationships and interactions. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re navigating the social landscape.
1. You dismiss their dreams.
Everyone has aspirations, whether it’s starting a business, writing a book, or travelling the world. When someone shares their dreams with you, it’s a vulnerable moment. Dismissing their aspirations as unrealistic or silly is a quick way to shut them down and make them feel insignificant. Instead, offer encouragement, even if you have doubts. Who knows, they might just surprise you.
2. You belittle their accomplishments.
Maybe they got a promotion at work or finally ran that marathon they’d been training for. Whatever the achievement, big or small, it’s important to them. Downplaying their success or comparing it to your own is not only insensitive, but also shows a lack of genuine happiness for them. Celebrate their wins with them, and let them bask in the glory.
3. You invalidate their feelings.
Source: Unsplash Whether they’re feeling sad, angry, or excited, their emotions are valid. Telling someone they shouldn’t feel a certain way is dismissive and can make them feel like they’re overreacting. Instead, listen to them without judgment, offer a shoulder to lean on, or simply acknowledge their feelings. Sometimes, just knowing they’re being heard is enough.
4. You compare them to other people.
Source: Unsplash We all have our own unique strengths and weaknesses. Comparing someone to their sibling, friend, or coworker is not only unfair but also undermines their individuality. It can make them feel like they’re not good enough or that they’ll never measure up. Focus on their individual qualities and celebrate what makes them special.
5. You make them feel like a burden.
Source: Unsplash Everyone needs help sometimes. Whether it’s asking for advice, needing a favour or just wanting someone to listen, reaching out is a natural human need. Making someone feel like they’re inconveniencing you or that their problems are trivial is hurtful and can damage the relationship. Be there for them when they need you, and offer support without making them feel guilty.
6. You make them doubt their abilities.
Everyone has moments of self-doubt, but it’s important to build people up, not tear them down. Making someone question their skills, intelligence, or worth is a guaranteed way to destroy their confidence. Instead, offer constructive feedback, highlight their strengths, and encourage them to pursue their goals. Your support could make all the difference.
7. You make them feel like they don’t belong.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s a new job, a social gathering, or a family reunion, everyone wants to feel like they’re part of the group. Excluding someone, making them feel unwelcome, or constantly reminding them that they’re different is hurtful and isolating. Make an effort to include them, find common ground, and show them that they’re valued for who they are.
8. You make fun of their insecurities.
We all have insecurities, whether it’s about our appearance, our abilities, or our past mistakes. Making fun of someone’s insecurities is a cruel way to get a cheap laugh and can have lasting negative effects on their self-esteem. Instead, be kind, offer support, and help them find ways to overcome their insecurities.
9. You make them feel like they’re not good enough.
Everyone wants to feel loved and accepted for who they are. Constantly putting someone down, criticising their choices, or making them feel like they’re not good enough will inevitably damage their self-esteem. Instead, offer encouragement, support, and unconditional love. Let them know that you believe in them, no matter what.
10. You make them feel like they’re not worth your time.
Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and kindness, regardless of their social status, background, or beliefs. Making someone feel like they’re not worth your time or that they’re not important enough to get your attention is hurtful and disrespectful. Treat everyone with dignity and respect, and make them feel like they matter.
11. You make them feel like they’re alone.
Life can be tough, and everyone needs a support system. When you make someone feel like they’re alone in the world, you’re isolating them and making their problems seem even more insurmountable. Be there for them, offer a listening ear, and let them know that they’re not alone.
12. You make them feel like they’re not loved.
Everyone needs to feel loved and appreciated. When you make someone feel like they’re not loved or that you don’t care about them, it can be devastating. Show them that you love them, through your words and actions. Make them feel special, valued, and cherished.
13. You make them feel like they’re not enough.
No one is perfect, and everyone has flaws. When you make someone feel like they’re not enough, you’re sending them the message that they’re not good enough as they are. Embrace their imperfections, and help them to love and accept themselves for who they are.
14. You make them feel like they’re a burden.
Everyone needs help sometimes. When you make someone feel like they’re a burden, you’re discouraging them from reaching out for help when they need it. Be there for them when they need you, and offer support without making them feel guilty.
15. You make them feel like they’re not worth your time.
Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and kindness, regardless of their social status, background, or beliefs. When you make someone feel like they’re not worth your time or that they’re not important enough to get your attention, it’s hurtful and disrespectful. Treat everyone with dignity and respect, and make them feel like they matter.
16. You make them feel like they’re not loved.
Everyone needs to feel loved and appreciated. When you make someone feel like they’re not loved or that you don’t care about them, it can be devastating. Show them that you love them, through your words and actions. Make them feel special, valued, and cherished.
