People who make promises but never keep them usually display these 8 behaviors (without realizing it)
There’s a stark contrast between people who keep their promises and those who don’t.
Those who consistently break promises often do so without realizing the telltale signs they’re showing.
You see, promise-breakers tend to exhibit a set of behaviors that give them away. It’s like they’re leaving footprints in the sand without even knowing it.
In this article, we’ll unravel the 8 usual behaviors people who make promises but never keep them show, often without even realizing it. So sit tight and get ready for some insightful revelations.
1) Overcommitment
Promise-breakers often bite off more than they can chew.
This happens when someone is excessively enthusiastic and eager to please. They make grand promises without considering the feasibility of accomplishing them.
It’s like being in a candy store and wanting every sweet treat you lay your eyes on. But, as we all know, too much of a good thing can be bad.
Overcommitment is a common trait among people who have a habit of breaking promises. They’re driven by the desire to make others happy, often overlooking the fact that they’re setting themselves up for failure.
The result? Unfulfilled promises and disappointed expectations.
2) Procrastination
I’m sure we’ve all been guilty of this at some point.
I remember a time when my friend, let’s call him Mark, promised to help me move apartments. He assured me that he would be there bright and early on moving day.
However, Mark has a notorious reputation for procrastination. His intentions are always good, but his follow-through… not so much.
As moving day approached, I could sense the familiar hints of delay. Excuses started creeping in – he was busy, something came up, he would do it later. But later never came.
Ultimately, the moving day arrived… and so did the disappointment. Despite his promises, Mark didn’t show up until late afternoon.
Procrastination is a classic trait of promise-breakers. They often delay tasks until the last minute, leading to broken promises and letdowns. It’s crucial to spot this trait to avoid relying heavily on such individuals.
3) Lack of organization
People who break promises frequently are usually found lacking in organizational skills. They struggle with time management and often have a chaotic approach to life.
A study found that people with cluttered homes were more likely to procrastinate, leading to unfulfilled tasks and promises.
Just imagine a person surrounded by a pile of unattended tasks, scattered thoughts, and a haphazard schedule. Sounds like a recipe for broken promises, right?
Lack of organization can be a significant roadblock in fulfilling promises. Understanding this can help you manage your expectations when dealing with such individuals.
4) Desire for approval
A common trait among promise-breakers is their intense desire for approval. These individuals often find themselves agreeing to things and making commitments just to please others, even when they know deep down they might not be able to fulfill them.
Their fear of rejection or disapproval drives them to make promises, but their inability to follow through results in broken commitments.
So, the next time someone with a pattern of broken promises makes a commitment to you, remember that their intent may be more about seeking approval than delivering on their promise. This realization can help you prevent potential disappointments down the line.
5) Fear of confrontation
Promise-breakers are often afraid of confrontations. The thought of saying ‘no’ and potentially disappointing someone is a fear they carry.
It’s a tough spot to be in. They end up making promises to avoid disappointing others at the moment, only to disappoint them in the long run when they fail to keep their word.
This fear of confrontation and conflict often comes from a place of empathy. They genuinely don’t want to upset anyone. But ironically, their inability to say ‘no’ leads to more hurt feelings and disappointment.
6) Inconsistency
Inconsistency is another common trait among those who frequently break promises. One day they’re fully committed and the next, they’re nowhere to be found.
I recall a time when a close friend promised to join me on a fitness journey. We were both looking forward to it, and the initial enthusiasm was off the charts. She was all in, promising to show up for our morning runs without fail.
But as the days rolled by, her commitment wavered. Some days she was there, full of energy, and other days she’d cancel at the last minute with a variety of excuses. Her inconsistency made it hard to rely on her.
Inconsistency in behavior is a telltale sign of someone who often breaks promises.
7) Avoidance of responsibility
People who frequently break promises often have an aversion to responsibility. They may make commitments initially but tend to shy away when it’s time to deliver.
This behavior is often a result of an inability to accept responsibility for their actions or decisions. They’d rather promise and later break it than admit their limitations or inability upfront.
So if you notice that someone has a pattern of avoiding responsibility, be prepared. There’s a good chance they might not follow through on their promises.
8) Lack of self-awareness
Above all, individuals who frequently break promises often lack self-awareness. They fail to recognize or accept their patterns of broken commitments.
This lack of self-awareness is the root cause of most, if not all, broken promises. Until they acknowledge this behavior and its consequences, the pattern is likely to continue.
It’s crucial to understand this trait when dealing with such people. Their lack of self-awareness is not a reflection on you or your worth, but rather an internal struggle they need to address. Remember this, and it will help you maintain your own peace of mind.