10 Reasons Why People Do Not Like You

We human beings are, like most other creatures, highly social animals. Even if you consider yourself something of a loner, you still have to interact with large numbers of people on a daily basis. Key to this interaction is the maintenance of good relations, which is made a lot easier if those involved manage to get along well. But sometimes, and often for no apparent reason, people do dislike each other.

If you have identified that someone doesn't like you, then it's important to keep in mind that it may not be down to you alone. Sometimes, people have quite irrational dislikes based upon their own weaknesses and prejudices. However, if you've identified that a number of people seem to dislike you and in tellingly similar ways, then it may be time to do a little self-assessment on your interaction skills.

# Listening skills

Or the lack thereof. Nothing is more irritating than someone who doesn't even make the effort to listen to what the other person is saying. Instead, these people are more intent on formulating their own words and cutting the speaker off mid-flow. If you are guilty of this, then it's time to close your mouth and open your ears occasionally. Maybe then you'll start to lose a few of your haters.

# Deep pockets and short arms

Generosity is a wonderful quality, but its opposite is notably disliked. If you're always keen to avoid paying your way, then chances are that people have noticed this trait of yours and word has gotten around that you can be stingy. Time to put your hand in your pocket.

# Critical condition

Some people really have no filter and are so quick to criticize those around them. If this is you, it could be one of the reasons why some people seem to be giving you a wide berth. Try to ease up on the criticisms and watch your friend count soar.

# I didn't do anything!

Which may, of course, be precisely the issue. If you have a streak of idleness a mile long, yet expect everyone to pick up behind you, this could be another reason they aren't so fond of you. Start pulling your weight and see if this improves your relationships.

# Talking a big game

There's nothing wrong with enjoying the fruits of your labors, but boasting about your wealth, possessions or whatever else is only likely to rub people up the wrong way.

# Stuck like glue

Although quite endearing in some situations, clinging on to people like a desperate limpet is likely to attract all the wrong kind of attention. Play it cool and start to lay off a little. People might start to like you more again.

# The glass is half empty

Another of the most common reasons that people aren't liked is because they are negative and bring the mood down. Strangely, a lot of people who appear to be negative aren't actually negative at heart. This can be reflective of an upbringing where they weren't shown affection, so negativity provided the only route to conversation. If this is you, then maybe you need to turn some of your Negative Nancy vocabulary around. Simple, but very effective.

# The empty vessel

Uninterested people just aren't very interesting. Someone who does nothing but watch soap operas, lie on the couch and read trashy magazines can be a real drag to be around. These people bring nothing to the conversation, which consequently persuades people to dislike them. Answer: get a life.

# Flights of fancy

If you're the kind of person who is quite flighty and doesn't really take anything seriously, this could be the reason why people are starting to stay away from you. So stop showing up late and/or canceling appointments with people all the time, and start showing them the respect they deserve. Commit to your words and keep your promises. Then, people might just start to really enjoy your company.