7 behaviors of people who aren’t very easy to get along with, according to psychology

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you just can’t seem to get along with a certain person?

No matter how hard you try, it feels like you’re always clashing, and you can’t quite figure out why?

Well, the answer to this conundrum might be hidden in the subtle nuances of their behavior.

People who are difficult to get along with often exhibit certain characteristics that set them apart.

These behaviors, backed by psychological research, can make it challenging for them to build healthy relationships.

In the quest for self-improvement, it’s crucial to understand these traits.

Not only to navigate our social landscapes more effectively but also to recognize if we, ourselves, might be unconsciously pushing people away.

So, let’s delve into these seven behaviors of people who aren’t very easy to get along with.

Remember: understanding is the first step towards change.

1) They’re always right

Ever had a conversation with someone who refuses to admit they could be wrong?

This is a typical trait of individuals who can be tough to get along with. They see their perspective as the absolute truth and dismiss others’ viewpoints.

Psychology labels this as cognitive rigidity, an inability or unwillingness to change one’s thinking or views. It often leads to conflict and hampers effective communication.

Being open to different perspectives not only fosters healthy conversations but also broadens our understanding of the world around us.

If you notice this trait in yourself or others, it might be time for a little introspection or conversation.

Remember, it’s okay to agree to disagree sometimes!

2) They lack empathy

I remember an old friend once told me that he found it hard to understand why people felt the way they did. He often came across as insensitive, even though he didn’t mean to.

This inability to empathize is another behavior common in people who aren’t easy to get along with.

Empathy is crucial in forming meaningful connections with others.

In my friend’s case, his lack of empathy often led to misunderstandings and strained relationships. It wasn’t that he didn’t care—he just struggled to put himself in other people’s shoes.

Understanding and acknowledging others’ feelings is key to building stronger bonds and fostering mutual respect.

If you find yourself struggling with empathy, it might be worth exploring some techniques to develop this vital skill.

3) They’re stuck in negativity

Let’s talk about negativity – it’s draining, isn’t it?

You know that one person who always seems to be under a cloud?

Every conversation is laden with complaints or pessimistic views. It’s as if they’re living in a constant state of discontent.

Chronic negativity can be highly destructive. It not only impacts the individual’s mental health but also taints the surrounding environment.

It’s important to remember that everyone has bad days. But when negativity becomes a habitual mindset, it can push people away.

Self-awareness is the first step towards breaking this cycle.

By recognizing and challenging negative thought patterns, it’s possible to shift towards a more balanced and positive outlook.

It’s not about wearing rose-colored glasses all the time, but rather finding a silver lining amidst the chaos.

Sometimes, all it takes is a change in perspective.

4) They’re constantly competing

Do you know someone who seems to turn every situation into a competition? Always trying to one-up others and striving to be the best, even in casual conversations?

This constant need for validation and superiority can actually create a barrier between them and the people around them.

In psychology, it’s called hyper-competitiveness and it’s often linked to low self-esteem.

People who are hyper-competitive usually feel the need to prove their worth constantly, which can make interactions with them stressful and exhausting.

Relationships are not about winning or losing. They are about understanding, mutual respect, and growth.

If you notice this behavior in someone (or even yourself), it might be time for a gentle reality check.

After all, life is not a race, but a journey to be savored.

5) They’re poor listeners

Did you know that good listeners are more likely to build strong relationships and succeed in their personal and professional lives?

Yet, some people struggle with this skill. They might be impatient, frequently interrupt, or simply tune out when others are talking.

This behavior sends a clear message: what they have to say is more important than what you’re expressing.

Being a good listener means giving your full attention, showing empathy, and responding appropriately. It’s about making the speaker feel heard and valued.

If you notice someone displaying poor listening habits (or if you recognize them in yourself), remember: communication is a two-way street.

And sometimes, the most powerful thing we can say is nothing at all—just listen.

6) They struggle with self-awareness

Imagine walking through life with a blindfold on. You’d stumble, make mistakes, and possibly hurt others without even realizing it.

This is what life can be like for those who lack self-awareness.

Being self-aware means understanding our strengths, weaknesses, thoughts, beliefs, and emotions.

It’s about recognizing how we affect others and taking responsibility for our actions.

People lacking self-awareness often unintentionally harm their relationships without understanding why.

They might be surprised when others react negatively to their behavior.

If you see this trait in someone you know (or even in yourself), don’t be too hard on them (or yourself). Building self-awareness takes time and patience.

Start with kindness and empathy. Understanding comes next, then change.

It’s a journey, but a worthwhile one.

7) They resist change

Change is the only constant in life. Yet, some people resist it with every fiber of their being.

Individuals who are difficult to get along with often struggle with change.

They are rigid in their routines, ideas, and beliefs, and this rigidity can make them inflexible in their relationships.

Psychologically, it’s understandable. Change can be scary. It brings uncertainty and pushes us out of our comfort zones.

But it’s also essential for personal growth and healthy relationships.

Embracing change means being open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives. It’s about growing with the flow of life and not against it.

Like a tree in the wind, we are stronger when we learn to bend, not break.

Final thoughts

As you reflect on these behaviors, it’s important to remember that we all have our quirks and flaws. We may even see traces of these traits in ourselves at times.

But that doesn’t mean we’re doomed to a life of difficult relationships.

Quite the opposite. Recognizing these behaviors is the first step towards self-improvement and better interactions.

If you notice any of these traits in yourself, don’t despair. We all have the capacity for change

. It begins with self-awareness, followed by understanding, then action.

And if you see these traits in others, consider it an opportunity to practice patience and empathy. Remember, everyone is on their own journey.

In the end, it’s not about labeling people as “difficult” or “easy” to get along with.

It’s about understanding each other’s behaviors and working towards harmonious connections.

Take a moment, reflect on these insights, and consider how they resonate with your own experiences.

You might find yourself navigating your social landscape with a little more ease and a lot more compassion.

After all, as Wendy Mass once said, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.”