Today, we’re talking about shallow and vain behavior in relationships. Now, let’s be clear—we’re not here to judge (okay, maybe a little), but rather to shed some light on habits that might indicate someone’s operating on a superficial level. Remember, nobody’s perfect, and we all have our moments of vanity. But when these behaviors become a pattern? Well, that’s when eyebrows start to raise.
1. They stay far away from “ugly” emotions
Sadness, anger, fear? Not in their vocabulary. This type goes to great lengths to appear perpetually happy and unbothered. It’s like they believe showing any “negative” emotion will crack their perfect facade. News flash: real relationships involve the full spectrum of emotions, not just the pretty ones.
2. They treat their partner like an accessory
In the world of shallow and vain, partners are often treated more like fashion accessories than actual human beings. They might choose partners based on looks or status, parading them around like the latest designer bag. Personal connection? Emotional support? That’s not in this season’s collection, darling.
3. They’re weirdly obsessed with youth
Aging is a natural process, but for these people, it’s public enemy number one. They’re constantly chasing the fountain of youth through trendy diets, the latest anti-aging treatments, or even by dating much younger partners. It’s like they believe their value has an expiration date, and they’re desperately trying to extend it.
4. They’re not that nice to the waitstaff
The true test of character often lies in how someone treats those in service positions. These people might be all charming with their peers but turn into demanding divas when dealing with waiters, shop assistants, or anyone they deem “beneath” them. It’s a classic case of punching down to feel taller.
5. Their apologies are surface-level
When they do apologize (which is rare), it’s often more about damage control than genuine remorse. “I’m sorry you felt that way” is their go-to phrase, shifting the blame and avoiding real accountability. They’re allergic to admitting they might have actually done something wrong and according to Psychology Today, it does more harm.
6. They’re always trying to upgrade their partner’s appearance
Suggesting a new haircut once in a while is one thing, but constantly trying to change your partner’s look is a whole other beast. If they’re always pushing for makeovers, new clothes, or even cosmetic procedures, it might be a sign they’re more concerned with having a trophy partner than a real connection.
7. Their conversations don’t go deep…like at all
Trying to have a deep conversation with them is like trying to dive into a puddle. They shy away from topics that require real thought or emotional depth. Instead, it’s all gossip, small talk, and surface-level chit-chat. Attempting to discuss philosophy, politics, or personal growth? Good luck—you might get a blank stare or a quick change of subject.
8. They’re obsessed with status friends
Their friendship criteria seem to be based on a bizarre point system where Instagram followers, job titles, and zip codes are the main factors. They’re always trying to network “up” and might even drop friends who don’t meet their ever-increasing status requirements. They’re playing a real-life version of “The Sims,” but with people.
9. They fish for compliments like it’s their job
You know the type—they’re constantly seeking validation about their appearance or achievements. “Do I look fat in this?” “Did you see how many likes my post got?” While everyone enjoys a compliment now and then, these people seem to run on them like cars run on gas.
10. Their generosity always has strings attached
When they do something nice, everyone needs to know about it. According to Psych Central, these peoples’ acts of kindness always seem to come with a hidden agenda— whether it’s social media recognition, favors in return, or just bragging rights. True generosity doesn’t need an audience, but they clearly didn’t get that memo.
11. They’re way too concerned with their partner’s “flaws”
Nobody’s perfect, but this type seems to have a magnifying glass for their partner’s imperfections. A tiny scar, a few extra pounds, or a less-than-prestigious job title becomes a major issue. They’re more concerned with how their partner makes them look than who they actually are as a person.
12. They have a “price tag” mentality
Everything seems to have a monetary value to them. Dates are judged by how expensive they are, not by the quality of time spent together. They might even keep mental tallies of who spent what in the relationship. Love languages? More like “show me the money” language.
13. They have a grandiose idea of romance
Grand gestures, picture-perfect dates, and fairy-tale proposals are their jam. While these can be fun, they prioritize the “Instagram-worthy” moments over genuine connection. Real love often happens in the quiet, mundane moments, but for them, if it’s not spectacular, it’s not worth doing.
14. They could care less about their partner’s success
Unless it directly benefits them, they struggle to genuinely celebrate their partner’s achievements. Your promotion might be met with a lukewarm “that’s nice” because it doesn’t immediately translate to a fancier lifestyle for them. It’s like they’re in constant competition, even with their own partner.
15. They have a “flex” for everything
Whether it’s name-dropping celebrities they’ve met, mentioning their expensive purchases, or humble-bragging about their achievements, they always find a way to flex. It’s like they’re afraid if they don’t constantly remind everyone of their worth, they might disappear. But here’s the thing: true worth doesn’t need a megaphone.
