33 Bad Habits You Should Stop While Communicating With Others(2023)

33 Bad Habits in Communicating with Others

Some bad habits have a direct effect on our relationships and our ability to communicate effectively with others. And the worst bad habits can even destroy important relationships.

The more of these you quit or replace with people-friendly counter-habits, the more effectively you’ll communicate with others.  And the easier it will be to make friends and keep them.

1. 1. Assuming the worst / judging
   2. Gossiping or spreading rumors about others
   3. Stereotyping others (i.e., racism, classism, homophobia, etc.)
   4. Excessive (or constant) complaining
   5. Interrupting and talking over others (habitually)
   6. Finishing other people’s sentences — with assumptions
   7. Picking fights (being contentious)
   8. Criticizing others
   9. Lying (habitually)
   10. Launching into long, self-centered monologues
   11. Hijacking conversations
   12. Rolling your eyes
   13. Staring at others to intimidate or unnerve them
   14. Touching others without permission
   15. Invading others’ personal space
   16. Blaming others to avoid taking responsibility
   17. Gaslighting those who disagree with you or call you out

1. 1. Talking to yourself around others
   2. Cracking your knuckles
   3. Humming to yourself
   4. Frequently saying “um” and “uh”
   5. Biting your pen or pencil
   6. Clicking your pen
   7. Agreeing with everyone just to keep the peace
   8. Talking too fast
   9. Talking too slowly or in a monotone voice
   10. Wringing your hands or fidgeting during a conversation
   11. Staring at the floor / avoiding eye contact

1. Spacing out and not paying attention to what others are saying
2. Making every conversation all about you and your interests
3. Checking your phone in the middle of a conversation
4. Drumming your fingers or tapping your foot impatiently
5. Not returning borrowed items (or money)