Ever feel like you are doing things for others, but it may not be within your bailiwick? You may be being polite, a sign of good character, but, as with most things, it can go too far. It’s important to remember that being overly polite can have negative consequences. If you say ‘yes’ when you mean ‘no,’ assert yourself. Don’t let yourself be pushed around by others, or you may be too polite for your own good.
This article will look at ten signs of being too polite and how to break out of the habit of excessive politeness. Whether you have difficulty saying no in social situations or putting others before yourself, these tips help you take charge of your life and set better boundaries with others. Being polite is one thing; being stepped is quite another.
1. You Never Say No While Helping Others
You might be too polite if you’re always the one saying yes. It’s important to be able to say no sometimes to protect your time and energy. If you say yes to everything, even when you don’t want to, it might signify that you’re too polite.
2. You Always Put Others First, Even if It Means Sacrificing Your Own Needs
You might be too polite if you’re the person who always puts others first, even if it means sacrificing your own needs. Being considerate of others is essential, but sometimes, you must put yourself first, especially when managing time constraints.
3. You Tend to Avoid Conflict at All Costs
Many people in the world avoid conflict at all costs. This can be a good thing in some situations, but it can also be harmful. If you constantly try to avoid conflict, it may be a sign that you are too polite.
4. You’re Agreeable Even When You Hold A Different Opinion
Holding back your opinions or needs out of fear of offending someone may be a sign that you’re too polite. People who are too polite often put others’ needs above their own, leading to resentment.
5. You’re a People Pleaser Who Hates Disappointing Others
You may be too polite if you’re always putting other people’s needs before your own and saying yes even when you want to say no. People pleasers hate disappointing others and will go out of their way to ensure everyone is happy – even if it means sacrificing their happiness.
6. You Always Let Others Go First
If you’re always letting others go first, it might signify that you’re too polite. You might be afraid of offending someone or making them feel uncomfortable. Or, you might want to be helpful and considerate. Whatever the reason, if you always let others go first, you must ask yourself if it’s really what you want to do.
7. You’re Always the One Who Volunteers
If you’re always the one who volunteers, it may be a sign that you’re too polite. You may fear saying no or offending someone, so you sometimes do things you hate doing. This can be draining and lead to resentment. Being assertive and setting boundaries is vital to living a happier, more fulfilling life.
8. You Always Apologize, Even When You Didn’t Do Anything Wrong
Saying sorry all the time can be a sign that you’re too quick to take the blame or that you’re not confident in yourself. Instead of apologizing for everything, try owning up to your mistakes and taking responsibility for your actions when appropriate. I always apologize, want to move forward, and feel silly when it may have been the other person’s role to acknowledge the deadlock.
9. You’re Always the Peacemaker
If you’re always acting as the peacemaker in your social circle, it may be a sign that you’re too polite. Peacemakers are typically non-confrontational and quick to forgive, which are both great qualities.
10. You Never Get Angry
It may signify that you are too nice if you never get angry. On the surface, this is a good thing. After all, who doesn’t want to be known as a nice person? But if you never let your anger out, it can build up inside you and cause problems.
Finding healthy ways to release anger is crucial if you significantly engage in rage. Whether that means talking to a friend about what’s bothering you, running to blow off steam, or writing down your thoughts in a journal, finding an outlet for your anger is crucial. Otherwise, it will only continue to fester inside you and could lead to more significant issues.
11. Prioritize Others Before Yourself
Being too polite can happen in the office when you spot a desirable job with higher pay, seeking your skills that become available, but you step aside as others also express in the same position. You worry about the fallout that may follow from one of your colleagues if you’re picked for the job instead of going for it. Prioritize yourself over others, as they likely would do as well.
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This article was produced and syndicated by The Cents of Money.
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With a passion for investing and personal finance, I began The Cents of Money to help and teach others. My experience as an equity analyst, professor, and mom provide me with unique insights about money and wealth creation and a desire to share with you.