7 things people with strong personalities are tired of hearing from everyone else

There’s a line between understanding someone’s strong personality and simply stereotyping them.

This line often gets blurred. People with strong personalities constantly hear things that can be downright annoying, even from well-meaning individuals.

In this article, I’m going to share with you 7 things people like me, with strong personalities, are absolutely tired of hearing from everyone else. These are phrases that might seem harmless but can actually be quite irritating.

So let’s dive in and hopefully, by the end of this article, you’ll think twice before uttering these phrases to your strong-willed friends.

1) “You’re intimidating”

Here’s a classic. Strong personalities often get labelled as intimidating.

Yes, people with strong personalities are assertive, confident, and aren’t afraid to voice their opinions. But too often, these traits are misconstrued as being intimidating.

The truth is, we aren’t trying to scare anyone off or be dominant. We’re simply being ourselves – authentic and straightforward.

So, before you label someone as intimidating, take a moment to understand where they’re coming from. It’s not about dominance, it’s about self-assuredness.

Remember, there’s a big difference.

2) “Why are you so serious all the time?”

Now, this one hits close to home. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked this question.

Just because I have a strong personality and focus on my work or projects with intensity, doesn’t mean I’m devoid of humor or fun. Let me set the record straight – I love a good laugh as much as anyone else!

The thing is, when we’re passionate about something, we focus on it with all our energy. This sometimes comes across as being ‘too serious’. But trust me, it’s just us giving our all to the task at hand.

So, next time you see someone deeply engrossed in their work, understand that they’re just in their zone. It doesn’t mean they cannot or do not appreciate light-hearted moments.

3) “You’re too independent”

The idea of being ‘too independent’ is a strange one. Studies have shown that fostering independence can lead to improved problem-solving skills, increased confidence, and a stronger sense of identity.

Yet, people with strong personalities often hear this as a criticism. Yes, we value our independence and enjoy our own company at times. But that doesn’t mean we shun companionship or teamwork.

Independence doesn’t equate to loneliness or isolation; it simply means we are comfortable in our own skin and capable of handling situations on our own when required. So, instead of viewing it as a negative, appreciate the strength that comes with independence.

4) “You need to calm down”

This phrase is often thrown at people with strong personalities when they are expressing their opinions with passion and conviction. It’s as if being passionate about something is synonymous with being out of control or overreactive.

Let me tell you, it’s not. Expressing our thoughts fervently doesn’t mean we’re ‘not calm’. It simply means we feel deeply about the topic at hand and are not afraid to show it.

When you encounter someone passionately expressing their viewpoint, try engaging in the conversation rather than asking them to ‘calm down’. You might be surprised at the depth and insight you gain from it.

5) “You’re too straightforward”

I remember a time when a close friend of mine told me that I was ‘too straightforward’. It stung, I won’t lie. I value honesty and open communication, and hearing that being straightforward was seen as a negative trait was disheartening.

People with strong personalities often get this. We believe in saying things as they are, not sugar-coating or skirting around the issue. We believe this leads to clear communication and understanding.

However, it’s important to remember that being straightforward doesn’t mean being rude or insensitive. We respect others’ feelings and always strive to communicate our thoughts in a considerate manner. It’s about being honest, not hurtful.

6) “Why do you always have to take the lead?”

This one is a common refrain. People with strong personalities are often natural leaders, taking charge of situations and ensuring things get done. However, this can sometimes be misconstrued as being controlling or bossy.

The reality is, we step up because we’re comfortable taking responsibility and making decisions. It’s not about control, but rather about utilizing our strengths and abilities to their fullest.

Leadership is not about dominating others, but guiding and inspiring them. So instead of seeing it as a negative trait, consider the courage and initiative it takes to lead.

7) “You’re too much”

This phrase is perhaps the most hurtful of them all. It implies that being who we are – strong, independent, and passionate – is somehow ‘too much’.

The truth is, there’s no such thing as being ‘too much’ when it comes to being true to oneself. We shouldn’t have to tone down our personalities or dull our shine for the comfort of others.

Believe it or not, we aren’t trying to be dominant or overbearing. We’re simply being our authentic selves. And if that’s ‘too much’ for some, maybe it says more about their insecurities than it does about us.

The essence of individuality

At the heart of this discussion is the celebration of individuality. It’s about acknowledging the power and beauty of being authentically yourself.

Psychologist Carl Rogers once said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” This embodies the experience of people with strong personalities.

We embrace our strengths, our passions, our assertive nature, and yes, even our intensity. And it’s this acceptance that frees us to grow and evolve.

So the next time you encounter someone with a strong personality, instead of boxing them into stereotypes or asking them to ‘tone it down’, celebrate their individuality. Remember, everyone has their unique way of navigating the world. And that’s what makes it all so beautifully diverse.