6 Red Flags: When It’s Time to Cut Someone Off

6 Red Flags: When It’s Time to Cut Someone Off

People aren’t simply good or bad; everyone has their flaws, and that’s okay. However, some individuals have toxic traits that make it impossible to build strong, healthy relationships. Rudeness, meanness, narcissism, and arrogance can hide behind charm, attractiveness, and success. Don’t let someone’s charisma blind you to their true nature. Here are some subtle signs that it’s time for someone to reevaluate their behavior and for you to reconsider the relationship.

1. They Treat Service Staff Poorly

There’s a certain type of person who consistently behaves terribly towards waitstaff, janitors, and other service workers. They make rude comments, rush them, and blame them for things that aren’t their fault. In these moments, you might feel embarrassed or even compelled to apologize to the mistreated worker on behalf of your companion. While it may seem like a small incident, someone who disrespects others’ work should be a major red flag. Dismissing it with a “Whatever, it’s just a waiter” attitude is a classic sign of arrogance and ignorance.

2. They Insult Others’ Appearances

We often comment on people who don’t meet our standards of attractiveness. Your acquaintance might make condescending and unwarranted remarks like “fat,” “ugly,” or “weird” when someone walks by. This behavior is a clear indication that you’re dealing with a true loser. No one is perfect, but even if we were, insulting a stranger based on their looks is low. Only ill-mannered people mock others for their appearance, as it has no bearing on their character. Such behavior is ugly and repulsive, and you shouldn’t associate with people who act this way.

3. They Criticize Others’ Musical Tastes

Everyone has different preferences, and that’s what makes us unique. Some enjoy horror movies, while others prefer romantic comedies or dramas. We should all respect each other’s tastes. However, some self-proclaimed experts feel the need to dictate what’s acceptable and what’s “not cool” to listen to. So what if you like indie music? That doesn’t make you better than someone who enjoys Selena Gomez’s latest album or Slav KPSS. It’s silly to judge someone’s depth based on their musical preferences.

4. They Manipulate Others

Being in a relationship with a manipulator can feel like a constant job interview. You’re always fighting for their approval and trying to be someone no one else has been for them. The reality is that manipulators intentionally behave as if their word is the most important thing in the world. This gives them a sense of control and superiority. While a part of you might want to “win them over,” remember that you deserve someone who reciprocates your feelings, shows empathy, and respects your individuality. Don’t waste your time on people who don’t appreciate you.

5. They Steal Your Ideas

You come up with a great idea for a group outing and share it with an acquaintance. An hour later, they’re pitching your concept as their own to your mutual friends. Everyone loves the idea, and in the excitement, no one realizes that it was originally yours. Working with such people can be especially challenging. You might share an observation about improving team performance, and suddenly, your “friend” is presenting your idea to the boss and getting a bonus. If you confront them, they might say something like, “Well, why didn’t you go to the boss yourself?” The “first come, first served” principle isn’t a great foundation for friendship.

6. They Talk When No One Asks Them To

In a group chat with colleagues, everyone contributes a little, trying to stay on topic and thinking carefully before sharing a joke. There’s a sense of calm and mutual understanding. But there’s always that one person who doesn’t know when to stop. They have to have the last word in every conversation, even if it’s unrelated to them. When someone points out their mistake, they might respond with something like, “Yeah, yeah, got it, you’re wrong.” It’s embarrassing to be associated with such behavior. The best solution is to tell them that they’re overstepping and should focus on doing their job well, rather than commenting on others’ work when no one asks for their input. If that doesn’t work, learn to ignore their outbursts.

For further reading, check out this article on Psychology Today about signs you’re dealing with a toxic person.