People Think I'm Mean Before They Meet Me

I once read a study that says it only takes seven seconds to make up your mind about someone. This number is applied to a professional context, but think about how it can apply to everyday relationships! How many opportunities have we missed out on just because of our everyday look? It's kind of crazy when you think about it.

I must admit, sometimes I see a complete stranger and decide almost immediately that I don't like them. Thoughts start running through my head like "Wow, who ran over her dog? I'll smile at her...Jesus Christ, is it that hard to smile back? Rude!" It's kind of sad because a lot of the time, some of the friendliest people just have really unfriendly faces...

Personally, I've been called everything: stuck-up, prissy, conceited, and even worse. It's not like I can do anything about it. My main concern is the fact that some pass judgement before I even open my mouth! Why do people do that?

I can see how some people don't like me at first. I generally spend more time listening than talking, which causes some to think that I "can't speak." Most of the time, I just don't have anything to say. Imagine trying to explain that to a new person; it's basically impossible. 

The funniest part is that the ones who don't like me initially are my age! Older adults like me a lot. Fortunately, as these people get to know me, they realize that I'm not bad at all. Because of this, it's not easy to make friends. I'm quiet with an disinterested face, which is a recipe for disaster. I have to admit, the only reason I've made most of my closest friends is because of group projects and other forced interactions. You wouldn't believe how many "I didn't like you at first" stories I've cringed through.

In the grand scheme of things, I don't know who's wrong, me or everyone else. Maybe there's no issue at all, and my experience is shared by many other people. Next time I catch bad vibes from someone, I'll try to take more time to get to know them before rushing to conclusions about their personality. Hopefully they do the same.