There’s a clear distinction between being just a person and being a truly classy person.
It all boils down to behavior. Being classy isn’t about flaunting your wealth or status, but about how you treat others, how you carry yourself, and how you react to situations.
To be classy, it’s not just about adding elegant habits but also about letting go of certain behaviors. If you are aiming to step up your game, here are 10 behaviors you need to wave goodbye to.
In this article, I’ll walk you through these behaviors and help pave your path towards becoming a truly classy person.
1) Complaining constantly
In the journey to becoming a truly classy person, the first habit you need to bid farewell to is constant complaining.
Complaints can be a part of daily conversations. Sometimes, it’s easier to bond over shared grievances. But there’s a clear line between discussing a problem constructively and simply focusing on the negatives.
Classy individuals know how to navigate through life’s challenges without constantly vocalizing their discomfort or dissatisfaction. They understand that everyone has their battles and that perpetually complaining can weigh heavily on the people around them.
Of course, this doesn’t mean suppressing genuine feelings or concerns. It means choosing to approach problems with a positive attitude, seeking solutions rather than dwelling on difficulties.
2) Gossiping
The second behavior you need to abandon is gossiping.
Let me share a personal example. I used to be a part of a friend circle where gossip was our usual conversation starter. We’d discuss who did what, who said what, and it all seemed harmless at first. But over time, I realized it was causing more harm than good.
Not only was it breeding unnecessary negativity, but it also made me question the kind of environment I was fostering. Was I contributing to a space where people felt safe and respected? Or was I part of a scenario where anyone could be the next topic of our conversation?
That revelation led me to make a conscious effort to steer clear of gossip. It wasn’t easy, but the change in my relationships and conversations was significant. They became more meaningful, more positive.
A truly classy person knows the value of privacy and respects it, not just for themselves but for others too. Gossiping doesn’t just damage your reputation; it can also harm the trust and respect you have with others.
3) Being judgemental
On our path to becoming classy, the third behavior we need to shed is being judgemental.
Charles Darwin, a renowned naturalist and biologist, once said, “Ignorance more frequently begets confidence than does knowledge.” This quote elegantly encapsulates the Dunning-Kruger effect, a psychological phenomenon where people with low ability at a task overestimate their ability.
Being judgemental often stems from this misplaced confidence. When we presume to know everything about a situation or a person based on limited information, we’re falling into this trap.
A classy person understands that everyone is fighting their own battles and that it’s not their place to pass judgments. They recognize that every person has their own path and that everyone deserves empathy and understanding, not judgment.
4) Interrupting others
The fourth behavior to bid adieu to on this journey is interrupting others.
In a world where everyone wants to be heard, it’s easy to forget the importance of listening. We’re often so eager to express our thoughts and opinions that we end up interrupting others in the middle of their sentences.
While it can sometimes be unintentional, constantly interrupting others can come off as disrespectful. It sends a message that you believe your thoughts and ideas are more important than theirs.
A truly classy person, however, values the art of listening just as much as speaking. They understand that everyone deserves a chance to express their thoughts without being interrupted.
By learning to listen more and interrupt less, you not only show respect for other people’s opinions but also open yourself up to learning new perspectives.
5) Being late
The fifth behavior that needs to be dropped is being habitually late.
Punctuality speaks volumes about a person’s respect for other people’s time. When you’re always late, it might give others the impression that you value your own time more than theirs.
A classy person understands that being punctual is a form of respect. They plan their schedule accordingly and make it a point to arrive on time, or even a few minutes early when possible.
Sure, unforeseen circumstances can sometimes make us late. But if tardiness becomes a habit, it might be time to reassess your time management skills.
If you want to be considered truly classy, start respecting time – both yours and others’. Being punctual not only shows respect but also demonstrates that you’re organized and reliable, which are key attributes of a classy individual.
6) Ignoring the less fortunate
The sixth behavior that needs to be left behind is ignoring the less fortunate.
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to become focused solely on our own needs and wants. But being classy isn’t just about how we present ourselves; it’s also about how we treat others, especially those less fortunate than us.
A truly classy person recognizes that they are part of a larger community. They understand that lending a hand to someone in need doesn’t diminish their own worth; instead, it enhances their humanity.
Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, donating to charity, or simply offering a kind word to someone having a tough day, small acts of kindness can go a long way.
Being classy isn’t just about looking good; it’s about making others feel good too. So, if you aspire to be truly classy, make empathy and kindness towards the less fortunate a part of your character.
7) Taking things for granted
The seventh behavior to say goodbye to is taking things for granted.
I remember a time when I was so caught up in chasing my goals that I forgot to appreciate the things I already had. I was so focused on the future that I overlooked the present. It took an unexpected event to make me realize how much I was taking for granted – from my health, to my loved ones, to the simple joys of life.
A classy individual understands the importance of gratitude. They appreciate what they have instead of yearning for what they don’t. They realize that every day is a gift and every moment is an opportunity to be thankful.
Gratitude not only makes you appreciate your blessings, but it also brings about a sense of contentment and peace.
8) Always trying to fit in
The eighth behavior that needs to be left behind is always trying to fit in.
While it might seem like the best way to be accepted or liked is to blend in with the crowd, the opposite is often true. A truly classy person understands that their unique qualities make them who they are.
Instead of conforming to societal expectations or trends, they stay true to themselves. They express their individuality without fear of being different or standing out. They understand that it’s their authenticity that makes them truly classy, not their ability to mimic what’s popular or trendy.
If you’re aiming for classiness, remember that there’s strength in embracing your individuality. Being yourself can be more impactful and memorable than simply blending in with the crowd.
9) Speaking ill of yourself
The ninth behavior to let go of is speaking ill of yourself.
We all have moments of self-doubt and instances where we’re overly critical of ourselves. However, constantly belittling yourself or focusing on your flaws can become a self-defeating habit.
A truly classy person understands the importance of self-respect and self-love. They recognize their strengths, acknowledge their weaknesses, and understand that they’re a work in progress. They don’t use negative language to describe themselves and they don’t let their mistakes define them.
It’s important to remember that the way you speak about yourself influences how others perceive you.
10) Neglecting personal growth
The final behavior that needs to be discarded is neglecting personal growth.
Classiness is more than just a way of dressing or acting. It’s a mindset, a continuous journey of self-improvement and growth. A truly classy person never stops learning, never stops growing. They constantly strive to be better, not just for themselves but also for the people around them.
Personal growth can come from various sources – books, experiences, interactions with others. It’s about being open to new ideas, willing to change, and eager to improve.
