Most people try to be polite and considerate. Unfortunately, we all have different definitions of what politeness is, and some habits that may seem polite can actually be off-putting to some people, writes wealthofgeeks.com. It’s almost impossible to know exactly what might bother people, and rethinking your habits from a new perspective can help you avoid unwanted behaviors that might bother people.

Politeness remains a great qualityPhoto: Andriy Popov / Panthermedia / Profimedia

1. Early arrival at the party

This “polite” custom is especially hated by party hosts because it can catch people off guard before they are ready. Arriving early can be rude, whether it’s for a meeting or class. This can make others feel rushed or guilty for not arriving earlier than you, so arriving 30 minutes early can be just as rude as being late.

2. Excessive apology

If you hurt someone, it’s always good to say sorry. However, it can be frustrating when someone is constantly apologizing for every little thing. Apologizing excessively can make the person you’re apologizing to feel guilty for making you feel guilty, or even annoy them.

3. Sending personal problems

Sharing personal information or concerns is how we get to know people and connect through shared interests, experiences or traits. However, telling him all your little problems (or big problems) can make people feel very uncomfortable, especially if you’re doing it on first dates. Sometimes it is even rude to share unpleasant things even with acquaintances.

4. Excessive compliments

While compliments should usually be warm and kind, they can also be rude and annoying. An overabundance of compliments can come across as hypocritical or, even worse, make him uncomfortable. Also, some people don’t appreciate compliments about their appearance or mood at all, because such comments can come across as aggressive.

5. Rejection of compliments

It’s okay if you don’t like compliments, but rejecting a compliment is rude to someone who’s just trying to be nice. People can also see rejection as something that should encourage you to give even more compliments.

6. Kiss on the cheeks, hug and shake hands

For centuries, people have greeted others this way, but with the spread of viruses, many people are loathe to touch strangers or even acquaintances. Unfortunately, some find it impolite to refuse these things, while others find it impolite to force physical contact.

7. Open the door for the lady

This act of chivalry should be a thoughtful and considerate gesture, but it can put a strange pressure on the person heading for the door. This can make her feel rushed, confused, or worse, think that you think she can’t open the door herself. Try to hold the door only for those behind you.

8. Pulling a lady’s chair to the table

Pulling someone’s chair to sit better at the table is a habit that many people no longer like. It can feel invasive when done by a stranger. And even if someone you know does it for you, it can feel condescending and awkward.

9. Provision of unwanted assistance

Insisting on helping someone who hasn’t asked for or refused your help can be rude on several levels. He may assume that you think he is incompetent and will complicate the situation. Whether it’s a stranger taking you shopping or a guest offering to help you wash the dishes after dinner.

10. Unsolicited referrals

Nobody likes, if he is a driver, to be told how to drive by passengers. Don’t give anyone unsolicited advice. In particular, don’t tell drivers how to drive or point out road signs. They must have seen them too…

11. Delivery of unexpected gifts

Some people love an unexpected gift, but others see it as an obligation or a burden. They may feel bad that they don’t have a gift for you, or feel obligated to buy one. If you don’t know for sure that this person loves unexpected gifts…

12. Jokes with waiters

Joking while ordering your morning coffee or beer at the bar may seem nice and friendly, but it usually makes the waiter smile, even though he may not be in the mood and still wasting his time. The staff there are not there to entertain you or listen to your jokes or stories