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Saying "whatever you want" instead of having an opinion -

Answering "whatever you want" when someone else is supposed to choose the restaurant for dinner and then arriving, only to order fries because you dislike the cuisine, is not actually considerate. It would be more enjoyable to select a place that pleases everyone instead of catering to just one person's preference.

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Complimenting someone's weight -

Although it may appear to be a positive celebration of someone's appearance, it can actually be quite triggering for individuals. Therefore, it is best to refrain from this behavior. Instead, opt for complimenting their radiant demeanor, rather than acknowledging their physical attributes before anything else.

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Pointing out that someone is quiet -

Quiet individuals in group settings often prefer not to be singled out or labeled as "quiet," as it can cause embarrassment or discomfort. Their reserved nature is intentional, and they consciously avoid drawing attention to themselves during conversations.

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Insisting on giving someone something after they say "no" -

Maybe they are simply being courteous when declining the offer of food or drinks, but even if that is the case, allow them the opportunity to gather the courage to express their true desires. It is more likely that they sincerely do not have any interest in it.

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Interrupting people who are sitting alone -

This is especially true when someone is reading, eating, or wearing earphones. Being alone doesn't necessarily imply a desire for companionship, and joining them out of sympathy is not advisable.

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Trauma competitions -

When someone is experiencing a difficult period, it is common for others to share their own challenges. But although the intention is usually to show empathy, it often comes across as one-upmanship. During times of hardship, individuals often just need someone to lend an ear, rather than having their struggles minimized in comparison.

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Announcing other people’s dietary restrictions -

Perhaps someone is attempting to adopt a vegan lifestyle, but they indulge in a cheesy dish as a treat. In such cases, it is unhelpful for someone to interject, saying, "You can't eat that!" The management of one's diet is a personal matter and not for others to dictate.

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Giving directions when you’re not sure -

If someone asks for directions and you give them what you believe is the correct way, it may seem kind, but you could potentially save them a significant amount of time by guiding them towards someone who actually knows.

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Unsolicited parenting advice -

Many new parents are aware that strangers often offer unsolicited advice about pregnancy and parenting, although these strangers truly believe that it's a kind gesture.

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Ending every sentence in exclamations -

Why are you yelling?! It's truly odd to feel uneasy about using periods to end sentences.

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Going into work sick to finish a project -

In these present times, going into work unwell, even if there is a deadline and a team relying on you, is not something that most will appreciate.

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Setting up single friends -

Unless someone explicitly asks to be set up, they probably won't appreciate it if someone unexpectedly introduces them to a potential date. It might seem like a friendly gesture, but maybe they prefer being single.

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Asking someone to smile -

Asking someone to smile rarely stems from concern for their emotions, but rather from seeking your own personal comfort. Aside from the unknown challenges someone might be experiencing, urging them to smile is unlikely to lift their spirits.

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Being called sweetheart, honey, etc. -

When these terms of endearment are used in the wrong context and by the wrong individuals, their impact changes significantly. The effect varies greatly depending on whether they come from a partner or parent, as opposed to your colleague or boss.

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Asking someone who’s obviously not okay if they’re okay -

When someone is displaying visible signs of distress, such as a coughing fit or approaching tears, it is natural to inquire about their well-being. However, this knee-jerk reaction may not provide much assistance. Instead, offering a glass of water or asking if they would like to discuss the matter are more helpful alternatives.

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Not informing someone they have food stuck in their teeth -

Perhaps you prefer not to cause them any embarrassment. However, if you refrain from informing them, there is a possibility that they may encounter a more awkward situation after you've parted ways.

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Pedestrians telling drivers to pass -

Pedestrians have the right of way, so it's not helpful when they signal cars to proceed. This often leads to both parties waiting and hesitating for an unnecessary amount of time.

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Drivers telling pedestrians to cross the road when not at a crosswalk -

If a pedestrian attempts to cross the road outside a designated crosswalk, it is hazardous for a driver to slow down and motion them to go ahead. This is due to the possibility of another approaching vehicle that could collide with them while overtaking the stopped car in the middle of the road.

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Telling people not to worry -

We all tend to say this at times, and although it may offer some comfort on rare occasions, it often comes across as dismissive, belittling, and devaluing towards the issue of concern.

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Holding doors open prematurely -

It is an uncomfortable situation for all parties involved, often prompting individuals to hasten their entry through the door!

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Persisting in romantic encounters -

There is a belief perpetuated by Hollywood that persistence is commendable in the pursuit of a partner. However, this can be offensive, particularly when the only time someone decides to back off is upon learning that the person is already in a relationship, as if their initial rejection was insufficient.

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Giving someone a bunch of old clothes -

Sometimes it can be a great way to update the wardrobes of friends and family without spending money, but the individuals who receive these unsolicited donations are well aware that most of these items ultimately end up cluttering their closets.

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Attempting to change someone's beliefs -

If you're religious, it is common to perceive greater satisfaction with one's own beliefs. However, attempting to persuade others of this notion, even with good intentions, often results in annoyance and offense.

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Touching the lower back to get by -

This unnecessary touching is usually carried out by men while moving past women. When you need to pass someone, it is better to politely say "Excuse me" instead of intrusively touching a stranger's lower back.

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Forcing someone to go out -

Certain extroverts may try to persuade others to go out, as if it were a benevolent act on their part. Nonetheless, the decision to stay in is often one made out of personal necessity.

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Completing tasks for someone without telling them -

Occasionally, it can be a pleasant surprise when someone else takes over a task. However, more often than not, the person who was initially responsible for the task had a set plan and method to carry it out. Consequently, their efforts end up being wasted, leaving them feeling frustrated that their desired approach was not followed.

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Telling curly-haired people you like their straight hair better -

Just like people with straight hair might curl their hair, people with curly hair sometimes straighten it for a change. However, saying that you prefer their artificially straightened hair over their natural look can be harmful and reinforces outdated biases against natural textures.

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Lying about liking something -

Lying about your preferences when someone gives you something or suggests an activity can lead to unwanted experiences. Moreover, it is unfair to the other person who is likely seeking a sincere connection.

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Not correcting someone -

Maybe it's individuals using inappropriate language or expressing offensive opinions that should not be reiterated. Nevertheless, refraining from speaking up under the pretext of being "nice" does not assist them in any way.

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Telling a woman she’s different from other women -

Despite the initial appearance of this being a compliment, the woman is now faced with the task of discovering your true perception of women in general and the specific reason for her being considered an exception.

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Drowning someone in affection right from the start of the relationship -

Displaying excessive affection and attention towards someone in the early stages of a relationship may initially appear kind and sincere, but it has gained notoriety as "love bombing" due to its tendency to foster an unhealthy dynamic where the other person feels compelled to reciprocate.

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Leading someone to believe you like them -

Choosing to be ambiguous about your feelings to spare someone else's feelings may seem convenient at first. However, as their emotions evolve, it will become increasingly challenging for both of you.

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Not sharing valid critique -

If someone shares their work with you or if you're in a work meeting and have a valid critique but choose not to share it in order to spare their feelings, it's important to understand that you may actually be doing more harm in the long term.

Sources: (Thought Catalog) (Bustle)

See also: The importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace

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