Some Simple Everyday Things That Are Actually Quite Rude (4 of 8)

Etiquette Around Others

There are all kinds of social settings where what we do can come off as rude. For this section, I’m touching on interaction with others you engage with broadly.

• First thing to not do around others is making them feel bad for not knowing something. We all have our vices, but making someone feel stupid or beneath you is not good. Because you’re good at something and others aren’t isn’t an excuse to belittle or make someone feel inferior to you.

Instead, work on guiding them and encouraging them.

• One other thing that’s rude is not accepting compliments. For many people, they struggle to take compliments. We often can’t accept them or undermine them with something backhanded. But regardless of it being a lack of self-esteem or out of modesty, some compliments are warranted and are meaningful and appreciated when accepted.

To deny those compliments or water them down is disrespectful and can come off as rude.

• Another thing that’s rude is scowling. Even if what you’re looking doesn’t warrant disapproval, the facial expression may still be on your face. A look of anger, being mean or concerned when you’re not can make you less approachable.

Instead, work on putting a smile on if you notice your expression is off.

• Fourth thing is about requesting a tour of a home. Sure you may be curious about how it looks, but not everyone is going to be cleaning up their entire house. In most cases people don’t want to be showing you around when the place is messy or unorganized.

The only time it’s appropriate to ask for a tour is when the owner insists on showing you around.

• What’s also pretty rude is forgetting people’s names. Yes, some people are the ones you’ll meet only briefly in your life, while others you do more, but at least remember their names. Forgetting people’s names often means to them that they’re not worth the small effort it takes for you to connect their face to their name.

Don’t chalk this up to bad memory either. Instead, put more effort to remember their names.