Negative Personality Traits: That Push People Away
Negative personality traits are the habits, thoughts, and behaviors that make life harder for you and for the people around you. These traits can cause problems in friendships, family, school, or work. Everyone has a few traits they need to work on, and that’s okay — the important thing is to notice them and try to change.
In this article, we’ll explain what negative personality traits are, give examples, and share simple tips to help deal with them.
Table of Contents
What Are Negative Personality Traits?
Negative personality traits are qualities in a person’s behavior or attitude that others may find difficult, hurtful, or unpleasant. These traits can include being selfish, rude, dishonest, or lazy. People are not born with all their traits — many develop over time, and they can change with effort.
Having one or two negative traits doesn’t make someone a bad person. But ignoring these traits or not trying to improve them can hurt relationships and lead to problems.
Common Negative Personality Traits
Here are some of the most common negative personality traits, explained in simple words:
1. Lying
Not telling the truth can make others lose trust in you. Even small lies can cause big problems.
2. Selfishness
Thinking only about yourself and not caring about others can hurt friendships and relationships.
3. Jealousy
Feeling upset or angry when others succeed can lead to bad feelings and actions.
4. Anger Problems
Getting angry too fast or too often can scare people and push them away.
5. Being Rude
Saying mean things or not respecting others’ feelings is a negative trait that can cause fights or sadness.
6. Laziness
Not trying, not helping, or always putting things off can make others frustrated with you.
7. Dishonesty
Being sneaky, hiding things, or cheating can damage your reputation and relationships.
8. Bossiness
Always wanting things your way and not listening to others makes people feel left out or disrespected.
9. Being Negative All the Time
Always complaining or expecting the worst can bring everyone’s mood down and hurt teamwork.
10. Judging Others
Making quick or harsh opinions about people without knowing them can hurt feelings and show a lack of kindness.
Why Do People Have Negative Personality Traits?
People can have negative personality traits for many reasons:
- They learned them from others (like parents or friends)
- They’ve been hurt before and are protecting themselves
- They didn’t realize the behavior was harmful
- They haven’t learned better ways to deal with feelings
The good news is that people can change their traits. It’s not easy, but it is possible.
How to Deal With Negative Personality Traits
If you notice negative personality traits in yourself, here are some simple steps to help change them:
1. Be Honest With Yourself
Ask yourself: “Do I do this often?” Noticing the problem is the first step toward fixing it.
2. Ask for Feedback
Sometimes other people see what we miss. Ask someone you trust: “What can I work on?”
3. Practice the Opposite
If you are often rude, try being kind. If you are lazy, try setting small goals and completing them.
4. Stay Calm
Take deep breaths when you feel angry or upset. Staying calm helps you make better choices.
5. Say Sorry When Needed
If your behaviour hurt someone, say sorry and mean it. It shows you care and want to improve.
6. Get Support
Talking to a counsellor, teacher, or trusted adult can help you work on your negative traits in a safe and helpful way.
7. Practice Daily
Changing a habit takes time. Keep trying every day. Even small changes can lead to big results over time.
What If Someone Else Has These Traits?
If someone in your life shows negative personality traits, like being mean or selfish:
- Try to talk to them kindly
- Set clear boundaries (say “please don’t speak to me like that”)
- Tell a trusted adult if the behavior is harmful
- Choose friends who treat you with kindness and respect
Conclusion
Everyone has flaws. But learning about negative personality traits helps us grow into better people. By understanding your own traits and working to change them, you build stronger friendships, a better life, and a happier self.
Changing negative traits takes time, but it’s always worth it. Start today — one step at a time.
For personalized support on your journey to self-improvement, explore therapy options at psychologyorg.
If you want to read more articles similar to Social Media and Mental Health, What You Need to Know we recommend that you enter our psychology category.
FAQs
Q1: Is it bad to have negative personality traits?
No one is perfect. What matters is recognizing these traits and trying to improve.
Q2: Can I change my personality traits?
Yes, with time, practice, and support, you can change any trait.
Q3: What if someone keeps hurting me with their traits?
Speak up kindly, set boundaries, and ask an adult or counselor for help if needed.
Q4: Are all negative traits easy to see?
No, some are hidden. That’s why it helps to ask for feedback or reflect on your actions.
Q5: Should I help my friends with their negative traits?
Yes, but do it kindly and without judgement. Support, don’t criticise.
