We’ve all tried to impress someone at one point or another, but sometimes our attempts at showing off can lead us into ridiculous territory. In the process of trying to prove how awesome we are, a lot of people end up abandoning common sense and diving headfirst into acting like jerks. Are you guilty of any of these behaviors? If so, maybe dial back the desperation to seem cool.
1. Thinly-veiled humble-bragging
“Ugh, I’m SO tired of all these free luxury vacations my job sends me on.” Trying to disguise bragging as a complaint is fooling absolutely no one. We get it, you’re awesome. No need to be subtle. Plus, those of us stuck in the office are rolling our eyes so hard it hurts.
You may also like: People Who Rarely Exhibit Empathy Usually Have These 16 Traits
2. “Accidentally” flashing fancy stuff
Leaving the designer label just peeking out, “casually” rolling up sleeves to reveal that pricey watch… It’s like a peacock fanning its feathers, but way less graceful. If you have nice things, cool! But trying to sneak them into every photo op is kinda sad. Honestly, it just makes everyone wonder if you spent your rent money on that stuff.
Don’t miss out – follow Bolde for exclusive content daily
3. Correcting people when you don’t know what you’re talking about
Nobody likes a mansplainer. That person who jumps in to “correct” you, even when you’re totally right, just reeks of insecurity. True knowledge doesn’t need to be shoved down everyone’s throats. Plus, sometimes the smartest move is admitting you don’t know something – shows you’re open to learning!
You may also like: People Who Lack Self-Awareness Frequently Say These 14 Things
4. Exaggerating every single story to make your life seem more dramatic
Their fish was THIS big, their test score was off the charts, their ex was totally crazy… We get it, you want to impress. But when the stories reach superhero levels of unbelievable, it has the opposite effect. A little embellishment is fine, but outright lying makes you look like a phony.
Don’t miss out – follow Bolde for exclusive content daily
5. Risking life and limb for the ‘Gram
Dangling off cliffs and posing with dangerous animals, all for a few likes? Yikes. Not worth it, friends. Safety first, clout-chasing second (or preferably not at all). Plus, those staged “candid” adventure shots are way less impressive when people know you almost died taking them.
You may also like: 15 Adult Traits of People Who Were Bullied As Kids
6. One-upping everyone’s stories
They had a good time? You had an AMAZING time. They got a raise? You just bought a yacht. It’s exhausting trying to compete with someone who always needs to top everyone else’s experience, so let people have their glory sometimes. Constantly one-upping makes you seem insecure, not cool.
Don’t miss out – follow Bolde for exclusive content daily
7. Faking it ’til you make it a little too much
Confidence is great, but pretending to be an expert when you’re clueless is a recipe for disaster. That DIY project falling apart or your mispronunciation of fancy foods just makes everyone feel awkward. It’s way better to admit you’re learning than to bulldoze your way through and make a fool of yourself.
You may also like: 30 Things Men Do When They’re Having A Midlife Crisis
8. Throwing money around like confetti
Overspending on unnecessary stuff to look cool usually has the opposite effect. People always inevitably notice the desperation behind it rather than thinking it’s a sign of genuine success. Being flashy without the substance is just tacky. People with real wealth often live surprisingly modestly.
Don’t miss out – follow Bolde for exclusive content daily
9. Name-dropping galore
“Oh, you know my friend Brad? Like, BRAD PITT Brad?” Unless you’re genuinely pals, casually mentioning your famous connection makes you seem like you’re clinging to their coolness. If the friendship is real, it’ll come up naturally. There’s really no need to force it into every conversation.
You may also like: 20 Ways A Narcissist Acts When They Can’t Control You
10. Always hogging the spotlight
That person who dominates conversations, always trying to steer things back to themselves? It’s more pity-inducing than impressive. Real confidence comes from letting other people shine too. Also, nobody likes someone who constantly interrupts or talks over everyone else.
Don’t miss out – follow Bolde for exclusive content daily
11. Claiming you don’t even have to try
“I don’t really have to try — I’m just naturally gifted.” Ew, gross. Whether it’s fitness, academics, or anything else – this braggy statement is a lie. EVERYONE puts in effort. Talent without work ethic gets you nowhere, so own your hustle! People are more impressed by dedication than some fluke of genetics.
You may also like: 15 Things People Who Don’t Put Up With Anyone’s BS Have In Common
12. Complaining about being “so busy”
Complaining about endless meetings and lack of sleep as a status symbol is a really weird flex. True bosses manage their time well. Hustle is admirable, but constantly broadcasting how overwhelmed you are is just annoying. We all have busy lives, no need to make it a competition. Also, if you really are that overworked and stressed, people are going to feel bad for you, not admire you.
Enjoy this piece? Give it a like and follow Bolde on MSN for more!
