As we get older, there are those immature fights that we just simply let go of. For one thing, we have already learned by now that either we are not going to win this particular fight or it is just pointless. Whenever someone talks to me about issues I think are petty and immature, I suggest to let it go. To pick the higher road, or to choose your battles.
This is better said than done at first of course, but after some time of getting into petty fights, we grow out of it. It’s like there’s no one else who’s going to win it or it’s just exhausting. The whole issue is draining your energy and puts you in a bad place, in a troublesome state of mind. It’s not worth it. They’re not worth it.
Signs of a Petty Person
Recognizing a petty situation and petty people is one thing while learning how to deal with them is another. If you have lived with one, talked with one or worked with one, you’re one step closer to learning how to recognize one in the future and how to deal with them. Even when these petty people whom you’ll come across in your lifetime are from different walks of life, career, or whatnot, how to deal with them are pretty similar. I already mentioned a few things above but let us dive more into it.
Take the high road. This is always the first on my list whenever we talk about the decision and stuff. Petty people are desperate for attention. They will take away all the attention from you so that people would take notice of them. These people want to be recognized whatever it takes – even taking away the limelight from others so that they can shine. As they say, don’t sweat the small stuff. You are going to have your time, no need to fight with it with petty people.
Fight back when necessary. It is one thing to take the high road, but it’s another to be a freaking doormat. Don’t allow petty people to pull you down. You can fight back when necessary but don’t be mean about it or don’t be petty like them. Do it the most decent way.
Be understanding. One thing about being mature and avoiding pettiness is becoming more understanding than you already are. There are reasons for every action, whether they’re petty or not. So, try to determine where this petty person is coming from and try to understand why they’re like that. No need to tolerate them, but you also do not need to let them walk all over you.
5 Examples of Petty Behavior
Commit to the plans you’ve made. This is cruel and petty. You made plans with someone and completely stood them up. If you know you can’t make it, then don’t do it.
You enjoy someone else’s failure. This is just low. Why would you be happy to see someone fail at something they have tried so hard to achieve? Imagine how you’d feel if you were in their shoes?
You’re vindictive. If you keep planning on that revenge and keep telling someone about it and never act on them, that’s being vindictive. Do it or don’t even mention it. Of course, I’m not suggesting to take revenge on people.
You’re condescending. So, no one is smarter than you. We get it. You don’t need to be rude.
You encourage mediocrity. You give a friend a bit of advice that you know she wants to hear. This is never okay because you don’t allow for growth.
