10 things you’re doing in public that people secretly judge you for

We’re all guilty of it – observing others in public and making silent judgments. It’s not always negative, but it’s still a form of judgement.

The reality is, while we’re busy watching others, people are also watching us. There are certain things we do in public that might solicit silent judgments from those around us.

In this article, I’ll share with you 10 actions that could be turning heads for the wrong reasons. But remember, this is about raising awareness, not triggering paranoia.

Let’s dive in and explore these habits together.

1) Loud phone conversations

We’ve all been there – in a public space trying to enjoy a quiet moment, when someone nearby starts a loud phone conversation. It’s not only disruptive, but it can also be seen as disrespectful.

In the digital age, our phones are our constant companions. But the general consensus is that public spaces aren’t the place for loud, personal discussions.

If you’re guilty of this, you might not realise the silent judgments you’re attracting. It’s always better to step aside or lower your voice when taking a call in public.

Everyone else around you didn’t sign up to hear your conversation. So be mindful and considerate – and keep your phone chats low-key when you’re out and about.

2) Ignoring personal space

I remember this one time when I was waiting in line at the grocery store. The person behind me was standing so close that I could feel their breath on my neck. It made me uncomfortable, but I didn’t say anything – I just moved forward a bit. But they moved closer again.

Invasion of personal space is a common occurrence in public places. It’s not just uncomfortable; it can also make people feel threatened or disrespected.

While you might not notice it, standing too close to others in public may attract negative judgments. Make it a habit to respect people’s personal space – it’s a simple act of courtesy that goes a long way.

3) Littering

Our planet is currently dealing with a significant garbage problem. Approximately 2.01 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste are produced annually worldwide, and sadly, much of this ends up in our oceans, forests, and streets.

When you litter in public, not only are you contributing to an already serious environmental problem, but you’re also likely drawing disapproving glances from those around you. It’s a harmful habit that many people judge harshly.

There are trash cans for a reason. Even if one isn’t immediately available, hold on to your trash until you can dispose of it properly. It’s a small action that can make a big difference for our planet and your public image.

4) Talking during a movie

We’ve all been excited about a movie or had questions during a plot twist, but the cinema isn’t the place for a chat. Nothing disrupts the immersive experience of a good film like a running commentary from the seat behind.

While you might be whispering to avoid disrupting others, remember sound carries in quiet spaces. You might think your comments are going unnoticed, but chances are, you’re attracting some silent judgments from fellow movie-goers.

Next time you’re at the movies, save your thoughts for the end. Your fellow audience members will thank you for it.

5) Not saying ‘thank you’

Good manners never go out of style. A simple ‘thank you’ can brighten someone’s day, and it’s a small way to show appreciation for the efforts of others.

However, when you omit this common courtesy, people notice. Whether it’s not thanking the barista for your coffee or the driver as you get off the bus, the absence of gratitude can leave a negative impression.

While it may seem like a small detail, consistently forgetting to say ‘thank you’ is something people may judge you for. 

6) Ignoring those in need

There’s a saying that how we treat those who can do nothing for us says a lot about our character. Whether it’s a homeless person asking for change, or someone struggling to carry their groceries, offering help is a sign of empathy and compassion.

However, when we choose to turn a blind eye to those in need, people around us notice. It might not be spoken out loud, but it’s often silently judged.

We’re all part of a community, and helping each other is what strengthens it. So next time you see someone in need, consider lending a hand. It’s not just about how others may perceive you; it’s about making the world a kinder place.

7) Parking across two spaces

I drive a pretty compact car. It’s nothing fancy, but it gets me where I need to go. One day, I was trying to find a parking spot at the mall, only to find a large SUV parked across two spaces. It was frustrating because parking was limited and here was this one vehicle taking up more space than necessary.

Parking incorrectly or selfishly not only inconveniences others but can also lead people to make assumptions about your consideration for others.

When you park, take a moment to ensure you’re within the lines. It’s a small act that can help prevent silent judgments and make everyone’s day a little easier.

8) Being too quiet

While it’s crucial to be mindful of our noise levels in public spaces, there is such a thing as being too quiet. For instance, if you’re in a group setting and you’re not contributing to the conversation at all, it might seem like you’re uninterested or disengaged.

People often appreciate those who can balance active listening with meaningful contribution. So while it’s important not to dominate a conversation, remember that your thoughts and opinions are valuable too.

By finding this balance, you can avoid being judged as aloof or indifferent in social situations.

9) Constantly checking your phone

We live in a digital age, and our smartphones have become an extension of ourselves. However, constantly checking your phone, especially when you’re in the company of others, can be perceived as rude or inconsiderate.

Not only does it give the impression that you’re not fully present or interested in what’s happening around you, but it can also make the people you’re with feel unimportant.

When you’re out with friends or in a meeting, try to keep your phone use to a minimum. It’s a simple way to show respect for those around you and avoid those silent judgments.

10) Not respecting service staff

How we treat service staff, such as waiters, cashiers, and bus drivers, says a lot about us. These individuals work hard to make our lives easier, and they deserve our respect and courtesy.

Being rude or dismissive to service staff is one of the quickest ways to attract negative judgments from those around you. Remember, kindness doesn’t cost anything but it can mean everything to someone.

Always treat service staff with the same respect and politeness you would want to be treated with. It’s not just the right thing to do; it’s also a reflection of who you are as a person.

Final thoughts

As we navigate our social spheres, it’s important to remember that our actions don’t exist in a vacuum. They’re observed, interpreted, and often silently judged by those around us.

Every time we step out in public, we contribute to the world’s perception of us. And while it’s impossible to control all judgments, being mindful of our actions can make a significant difference.

Whether it’s being considerate of others’ personal space, respecting service staff, or simply saying ‘thank you’, these are small changes that can greatly influence how we are perceived.

But above all, let us remember the words of philosopher Immanuel Kant: “We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals.” Extend this sentiment to how we treat fellow humans and we might just find ourselves creating a more understanding and respectful society.

After all, aren’t those the kind of judgments we would all like to inspire?