People who are really difficult to be around often display these 7 behaviors (without realizing it)

Let’s be honest, we all know someone who’s just plain hard to be around.

Often, they’re not even aware of what they’re doing that’s making them so difficult. They’re not trying to be annoying or challenging, but their behaviors just rub us the wrong way.

These behaviors can range from being overly negative to constantly seeking attention. And the tricky part is, they probably don’t even realize they’re doing it.

In this article, we’ll explore the seven behaviors that people who are really difficult to be around often display, usually without even realizing it.

Let’s get started. 

1) Constant negativity

We all have bad days, but some people seem to have a cloud of negativity following them wherever they go.

These are the folks who always see the glass as half empty and can find the downside in any situation. Their constant pessimism can be draining and create a tense environment.

It’s not that they’re trying to bring everyone down. Often, they don’t even realize how much their negative outlook affects the people around them. But their habitual gloominess can make them really difficult to be around, especially for those who are naturally more optimistic or positive.

It’s okay to share concerns or vent occasionally. But if every conversation is filled with complaints or cynicism, it might be time for some self-reflection.

2) Lack of personal boundaries

I remember having a friend who was always invading my personal space. Even when I would subtly move away or change my position, they just didn’t seem to get the message.

Not respecting personal boundaries, be it physical or emotional, can be a big issue. This can range from standing too close, asking overly personal questions, to not understanding when it’s time to leave you alone.

This friend of mine was likely not aware of how their actions were making me uncomfortable. But their inability to understand and respect my boundaries made it increasingly difficult for me to spend time with them.

3) Constant interruptions

Did you know that, on average, we interrupt each other once every 17 seconds in conversation? That’s a lot of interrupted thoughts and unfinished sentences.

People who constantly interrupt others during conversations can be really hard to be around. It’s as if they’re saying, “What I have to say is more important than what you’re saying.”

While they probably don’t mean to come across this way, their constant interruptions can make conversations feel one-sided and frustrating.

The key to good conversation is not just speaking, but also listening. And when someone is always interrupting, it’s clear they’re not really listening.

4) Being overly critical

We all know someone who has an opinion about everything and is not afraid to share it, often in a critical or judgemental manner. They can find faults in even the most trivial things and rarely miss an opportunity to point them out.

While constructive criticism can be beneficial, constant criticism can make interactions with them exhausting and discouraging. Most of the time, they might not even realize how their words are affecting others.

It’s important to remember that everyone has their own way of doing things and that different doesn’t necessarily mean wrong.

We should strive to be more understanding and less judgemental for a more harmonious coexistence.

5) Lack of empathy

Years ago, I was going through a rough patch. I had lost my job, was dealing with a breakup, and was generally feeling down. During this time, a friend of mine would often brush off my feelings, saying things like “it’s not that bad” or “just get over it.”

This lack of empathy made me feel even more isolated and misunderstood. Empathy is about understanding and sharing the feelings of others. It’s about being able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and see things from their perspective.

People who lack empathy often don’t realize how their inability to connect with others on an emotional level can make them difficult to be around.

It’s important to remember that everyone’s feelings are valid, and showing a little empathy can go a long way in improving relationships.

6) Being overly competitive

Competition can be a great motivator, but when taken to extremes, it can be off-putting. People who turn every situation into a competition or constantly feel the need to one-up others can be difficult to be around.

Whether it’s always having a better story, striving to be the best at everything, or turning simple tasks into a contest, their competitive nature can often rob the joy from shared experiences.

They may not realize it, but their constant need to win can make others feel inferior and create unnecessary tension.

It’s crucial to remember that not everything is a competition and that it’s okay to let others shine sometimes.

7) Always playing the victim

The most difficult people to be around are often those who consistently see themselves as victims. They never take responsibility for their actions, blaming others or circumstances for their misfortunes.

This perpetual victimhood can be exhausting for those around them, as it often results in a lack of accountability and personal growth. By refusing to take responsibility, they are essentially denying themselves the opportunity to learn and improve.

We all face challenges and hardships. But it’s how we respond to these obstacles that determines our character and growth. Taking responsibility is an integral part of this process.

Wrapping up: It’s often unconscious

The complexities of human behavior are deeply interwoven with our subconscious minds. This is especially true when it comes to the behaviors that make some people difficult to be around.

Often, these individuals are not consciously choosing to be negative, critical, or invasive. These behaviors are typically the manifestation of deeper issues or habits that have formed over time.

Psychologist Carl Jung once said, “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” This statement rings true for those who display these difficult behaviors. Until they become aware of their actions and how they impact others, they’re likely to continue on the same path.