I have always been curious about people’s behavior. When I was younger I would go to the mall and sit on a bench and just watch people and how they interacted. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic I have had many opportunities to observe how other’s are responding to the crisis.

The one behavior of others that bothers me the most during this time is being inconsiderate. I have witnessed many people being polite, courteous, and helpful but I have also encountered those that believe they are the only person in the world.

These are some examples of inconsiderate behavior that I have observed during the COVID-19 pandemic:

People hoarding groceries (especially toilet paper) and not leaving enough for others.

Parents of school children allowing their children to “run wild” in the street while neighbors are working from home.

Not respecting social distancing by parents allowing their children to play together in groups or adults getting too close in super markets, etc.

What does it mean to be considerate of others? It means to have continuous and careful thoughts, a taking into account, and a thoughtful and sympathetic regard for the needs of others.

Inconsiderate people may act without respect for the rights or feelings of others and being thoughtless towards others.

Inconsiderate people have entitlement issues, they believe they deserve something.

Rude and entitled people have decided they don’t need to follow rules. In contrast to consideration is rudeness, which means to be discourteous or impolite in a deliberate way.

Some people may or may not know they are being inconsiderate because they are not aware of their actions. Other times people are inconsiderate because they are distracted with other things going on around them.

If you have encountered inconsiderate people during this COVID-19 pandemic listed below are some tips to deal with those that believe they are they are the only one’s in the universe:

1. Ignore their bad behavior . There is a time to confront inconsideration but for the most part you can ignore the immaturity of others. Be wise when you should ignore and when you should confront. Some inconsiderate people actually like the attention and fuss they stir up. If you are dealing with these kinds of people the best thing you can do is to ignore their childish ploys.

2. If you are dealing with a co-worker, friend, neighbor or family member and they repeatedly are inconsiderate try talking to them about how you feel or write them a letter, If talking to them or writing a letter does not solve the problem you need to try and avoid them when possible so that you can keep peace between you and your fellow man.

3. Get backup when needed. If you are dealing with neighbors that are continually inconsiderate to your peace and well-being, contact your HOA (Home Owners Association) and if it is a legal issue, call the police. Check into your local noise ordinances.

4. Don’t fight fire with fire. Yes, it will be tempting to get back at that inconsiderate person your dealing with, but continue to be kind, peaceful and respectful in the midst of the rude behavior. Don’t get on their level.

Especially during these trying times where we are all more frazzled than normal, let's all do our part and think of others. Being a considerate person means that you care about the welfare of others, and you are conscientious of how your actions may affect others. Don’t be that one who thinks only of himself.

Reflect and respond: Have you experienced any inconsiderate people during this time? How have you dealt with their behavior?

Stephanie R. Reck, LMSW, LBT, BCCC
Stephanie Reck, Coaching & Consultation Services
www.stephaniereck.com
[email protected]
Stephanie Reck Coaching & Consultation Services, @2024
Author of, "Disciplining Your Mind 30 Days to a Better You!"