If someone displays these 10 behaviors, they’re really difficult to be around

Ever been around someone and just thought, “Yikes, this is tough”?

It’s not always easy to figure out why, but some behaviors are clear red flags.

In this article, we’ll break down 10 signs that someone might be a bit hard to deal with.

Check it out – maybe you’ve noticed these traits in others, or maybe you’ll spot a few in yourself.

Either way, knowledge is power, right? Let’s get to it!

1. They’re the Forever Interrupter

You’re halfway through your story about your weekend hike when – bam! – they butt in with a tale of their mountain-climbing adventure.

Sound familiar?

People who constantly interrupt aren’t just annoying; they often come across as thinking their stories, opinions, or ideas are more important than anyone else’s.

This behavior can make conversations feel like competitions, and let’s be real – nobody likes feeling second best, especially in their own conversations.

If someone’s always cutting you off, it’s a sign they might not be the best listening buddy.

2. The Chronic Complainer

We all have that one friend: the sky is too blue, the coffee’s a tad too hot, or the weekend’s just too short.

Every silver lining has its cloud.

Now, don’t get me wrong, everyone needs to vent once in a while—I’ve definitely had my days where my coffee just can’t seem to get it right!

But when someone is perpetually finding the rain in the sunshine, it can be draining.

Continual negativity not only brings down the mood but also makes it hard for others to share their joys or achievements.

Remember the time I mentioned my promotion, and it somehow turned into a gripe-fest about office politics?

Yep, classic chronic complainer.

3. The Overly Positive Polly

Now, this might sound odd, but stick with me.

Ever met someone who’s always on cloud nine, no matter the situation?

At first, their constant sunshine and rainbows feel refreshing. But soon, it can seem out of touch with reality.

Life isn’t perfect, and sometimes we face genuine struggles that deserve acknowledgment. Imagine sharing about a rough day, hoping for some understanding, only to get a “Well, at least it’s not raining!” in return.

It can be frustrating and invalidating.

A sprinkle of optimism is wonderful, but a flood can drown out genuine human connection.

Sometimes, you just need a buddy to agree that, yeah, things can be tough.

4. The One-Up Wonder

Honestly, we’ve all probably met someone like this: no matter what you’ve done, they’ve done it better. Or worse. Or bigger. Or smaller.

You ran a marathon? They did an ultra.

You’re tired from a bad night’s sleep? They haven’t slept well in weeks.

It’s exhausting.

At the root, this behavior often stems from insecurity or a need for validation.

We all want to feel seen and valued, but constantly trying to ‘one-up’ others is a misguided way to find that validation.

True connections are built on mutual respect and understanding, not a scoreboard of who’s had it tougher or grander.

5. The Ghoster

Ah, the ghoster—someone who’s there one moment and vanished the next.

I remember planning a whole weekend around a friend, shopping for snacks and movies, only for them to disappear off the radar.

No calls, no texts, just radio silence. Then, days later, they’d pop up like nothing happened. It’s bewildering and, frankly, a tad hurtful.

Reliable communication is the foundation of trust.

And while everyone gets busy or forgetful occasionally, consistently dropping off without a word can leave those around them feeling undervalued or like they’re walking on eggshells.

It’s always better to send a quick text than leave someone hanging.

6. The Drama Magnet

Some people seem to attract chaos like a moth to a flame.

Everywhere they go, drama follows. Whether it’s stirring the pot with gossip, overreacting to small issues, or always being embroiled in some conflict, their life feels like a never-ending soap opera.

It’s exhausting just being a spectator!

Engaging with them often feels like being sucked into the latest episode of “As Their World Turns.”

While life naturally has its ups and downs, constantly being in the thick of drama can be a sign of someone who thrives on chaos rather than seeking solutions or peace.

Steer clear unless you fancy a starring role in their next cliffhanger.

7. The Silent Sufferer

Counterintuitively, sometimes it’s the quiet ones you need to watch out for—not because they’re up to something sneaky, but because they internalize everything.

The Silent Sufferer won’t tell you when they’re upset or if you’ve unintentionally hurt their feelings. Instead, they simmer in their emotions, letting them build up until there’s an unexpected outburst or they pull away without explanation.

It’s like walking through a minefield; you never know when you might step on a hidden issue.

While it’s crucial to be respectful and understanding of everyone’s feelings, open communication is a two-way street.

Holding everything inside isn’t just hard on the Silent Sufferer, it’s tough on those around them, too.

8. The Spotlight Hogger

Ever been in a group setting where one person seems to dominate the conversation, turning every topic back to themselves?

Meet the Spotlight Hogger.

Whether it’s constantly sharing personal stories, bragging about their achievements, or even exaggerating their struggles for sympathy, their main goal is to be the center of attention.

Group outings or discussions become their one-person show.

While it’s natural for everyone to want their moment to shine, continuously hogging the spotlight can make others feel overshadowed and unheard.

Balance is key; it’s essential to listen just as much as, if not more than, we speak.

9. The Relentless Pessimist

Life isn’t always a bed of roses, but for the Relentless Pessimist, it’s as if they’re always sleeping on thorns.

They see the glass as not just half empty, but cracked and about to leak.

Whether it’s doubting new ideas, expecting the worst outcome in any situation, or perpetually viewing things with a gloomy lens, their dark cloud perspective can cast a shadow over even the most positive of gatherings.

While it’s wise to be cautious and realistic, continually expecting the worst can be a self-fulfilling prophecy and can dampen the spirits of those around them.

It’s a delicate dance between preparing for rain and hoping for sunshine.

10. The Boundary Breaker

Boundaries are like invisible fences we set to keep our mental gardens healthy and safe.

But the Boundary Breaker?

They barrel right through them, often without even realizing.

Whether it’s asking deeply personal questions at inappropriate times or assuming it’s okay to borrow your things without asking, they just don’t get the hint. I recall once setting a clear “no calls after 9 PM” rule, only for a friend to ring me up at midnight just to chat about a TV show.

It’s baffling and, at times, invasive.

Recognizing and respecting boundaries is crucial for healthy relationships; it’s all about mutual respect and understanding.

Everyone’s garden has its own unique layout; it’s essential to tread carefully.

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Lachlan Brown

I’m Lachlan Brown, the founder, and editor of Hack Spirit. I love writing practical articles that help others live a mindful and better life. I have a graduate degree in Psychology and I’ve spent the last 15 years reading and studying all I can about human psychology and practical ways to hack our mindsets. Check out my latest book on the Hidden Secrets of Buddhism and How it Saved My Life. If you want to get in touch with me, hit me up on Facebook or Twitter.

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