We’ve all heard the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.”

It’s a nice sentiment, sure. But let’s be real for a moment.

Sometimes, the cover can actually give us a pretty good idea about what’s inside the book.

You see, there are certain signs that can indicate if someone is not quite as high-quality as they may seem at first glance.

We’re not being judgmental here; rather, we’re attempting to understand human behavior more deeply.

So, if you’ve ever wondered, “How can I recognize a low-quality person?” then buckle up.

In this article, we’re going to dive into some telltale signs that someone may not be the best influence on your life – according to psychology.

Let’s get started, shall we?

1) They’re constantly playing the victim

Don’t get me wrong. Everyone faces adversity from time to time. It’s part of being human.

But there’s a difference between experiencing hardship and perpetually playing the victim.

People who consistently blame others for their misfortunes, instead of taking responsibility for their actions, might not be the best additions to your circle.

They tend to lack accountability and may even try manipulating you into shouldering their burdens.

2) They don’t respect boundaries

Boundaries are crucial in any relationship. They help to define our individuality and ensure mutual respect.

Yet, some people just don’t get it.

Allow me to share a personal experience.

I once had a friend, let’s call him John. John had a habit of showing up unannounced at my apartment.

At first, I shrugged it off, thinking he just didn’t understand the concept of personal space.

But when it started happening more frequently, even after I had expressed my discomfort, it became clear that John simply didn’t respect my boundaries.

This blatant disregard for personal boundaries is a sign of a low-quality person. It shows a lack of empathy and an inability to respect others’ needs and feelings.

Be wary of those who trample over your boundaries without a second thought. It’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore.

3) They’re never happy for your successes

We all know how good it feels when we achieve something we’ve worked hard for. And having people around who are genuinely happy for our successes? That’s the cherry on top.

But here’s a tough pill to swallow: Not everyone is going to be happy for you.

I remember when I got my first promotion at work. Most of my friends were thrilled for me, but there was one who reacted differently.

Instead of congratulating me, they started making snide remarks about how I must have “gotten lucky.”

Ouch, right?

This lack of genuine happiness for others’ success can be a sign of a low-quality person. It comes from a place of envy, insecurity, or both.

If you find someone who can’t seem to celebrate your victories with you, it might be time to reconsider their place in your life.

4) They’re always the center of attention

It’s human nature to want to be recognized and appreciated.

But here’s the catch.

Some people always want to be the center of attention. And when they’re not, they’ll do anything to grab that spotlight, often at the expense of others.

This incessant need for attention can indicate a low-quality person. It might stem from an inflated sense of self-importance, a lack of empathy, or a desperate need for validation.

And let’s be honest, it can be exhausting to keep up with.

5) They’re consistently negative

Did you know that negativity can be contagious? It’s true.

There’s a difference between having a bad day and exuding negativity like it’s your job.

Being around this constant pessimism can actually impact your own mood and outlook.

In fact, those who are perpetually negative might not be the highest-quality people to surround yourself with.

Their constant pessimism can drain your energy, influence your own mood, and even impact your mental health.

So, if you notice someone who’s consistently spreading gloom and doom, take a step back. You might need to protect your own positivity.

6) They lack empathy

Imagine this scenario.

You’ve had a tough day, and you’re sharing your feelings with a friend, hoping for some comfort.

But instead of offering kind words or a listening ear, they dismiss your feelings or, worse, make it about themselves.

This lack of empathy is a sign of a low-quality person. It shows a disregard for others’ feelings and a focus on self-interest.

Remember this – it’s okay to protect your emotional well-being. Surround yourself with people who understand and respect your feelings.

After all, you deserve empathy and kindness in all your relationships.

7) They’re dishonest

We could talk about a hundred different traits, but when it boils down to it, one of the most telling signs of a low-quality person is dishonesty.

Trust is the foundation of any relationship, be it personal or professional. And dishonesty? It’s the quickest way to erode that trust.

People who frequently lie, cheat, or manipulate facts for their benefit often lack integrity, a key component of high-quality individuals.

If you encounter someone who can’t seem to tell the truth, take it seriously. It’s more than just a red flag – it’s a blaring siren warning you to tread carefully.

Final reflections

Recognizing a low-quality person in your life can be a challenging and uncomfortable revelation.

But remember, this awareness is a step towards better understanding yourself and the relationships you choose.

Here’s the empowering part – you have control over who you surround yourself with.

Yes, it’s true. You can’t change other people, but you can change your reactions to them, set boundaries, and decide who deserves a space in your life.

So, don’t be disheartened if you’ve recognized some of these signs in people around you.

Instead, use it as an opportunity for growth – for improving your judgment and strengthening your personal boundaries.