It is always easy to point out the toxic traits in others when things go awry, but there are times when you need to stop and ask yourself, “Am I the problem?”
A toxic trait refers to the bad habits, behaviours and ongoing actions that harm others, explains BetterUp, the world’s largest mental health and coaching startup. Such traits can change over time due to factors such as experiences, belief systems and major life changes.
If you wish to identify if the above-mentioned factors have contributed to a change in your personality or mood, see the below toxic traits that may apply to you.
1. Refusing to apologise
“If you have toxic personality traits, you may often twist the truth to make it seem as though you’ve been victimised or displace blame,” says mental health-focused publication Psych Central. “Toxicity can also make it difficult to listen to the perspectives of others, which can lead to not apologising when necessary.”
2. Quick to anger
If you are someone who gets upset or angry easily, you may be considered a toxic person. BetterUp states that a person who’s quick to anger may become upset as a result of a trigger that would offend most people.
3. Dishonesty
A toxic person may use dishonesty as a coping mechanism, says BetterUp. “The act of lying is a choice. But dishonesty is the tendency to lie.”
4. Manipulating others
Toxic behaviours can include manipulation for personal gain and control through lying, exaggeration, or omitting information to get someone to do what they want, says Psych Central. Such manipulation can include insults, joking and withholding affection. The info hub further adds, “Another form of manipulation that may be used is gaslighting, which occurs when someone tries to make another person question their reality.”
5. Lack of empathy
BetterUp says, “A person who lacks empathy for others may struggle to understand other people’s feelings and thoughts. For example, a leader that lacks empathy may not notice that one of their employees is struggling to complete work because they are tired.”
It is always easy to point out the toxic traits in others when things go awry, but there are times when you need to stop and ask yourself, “Am I the problem?”
Also see: Signs you might be a toxic parent
