Story by Jaye Kenzie

Some individuals experience occasional bad moods, while others may be grappling with more profound issues. Could it be that you are encountering a person who is unkind?

I’m reluctant to label anyone as mean, understanding that anger and frustration often have underlying reasons. It’s my belief that most people are inherently good, though they may be marred by life’s hardships. It’s apparent that the unpleasantness in many individuals stems from the challenges they’ve faced.

So, I try to understand why someone acts the way they do. However, there are those few that really seem to have a mean disposition with no excuse. They can be defined as so:

Spotting a “mean nice” person can be tricky because they often hide their true intentions behind a facade of friendliness. Here are some signs to watch out for:

1. Gossiping: They frequently talk about others behind their backs, often sharing negative or private information.
2. Backhanded Compliments: They give compliments that feel more like insults, such as “You look great for your age”.
3. Passive-Aggressiveness: They use sarcasm, subtle digs, or the silent treatment instead of addressing issues directly.
4. Playing the Victim: They twist situations to make themselves appear as the victim, deflecting blame and seeking sympathy.
5. Fake Friendliness: Their friendliness feels over-the-top and insincere, often used to manipulate or gain favor.
6. Manipulation: They use charm to get what they want, often at the expense of others.
7. Condescension: They speak in a belittling or condescending manner while maintaining a friendly demeanor.

These behaviors can be subtle, but paying attention to these patterns can help you identify someone who might not be as nice as they seem. Have you encountered anyone like this before?