As human, it’s essential that we feel valued, appreciated, and seen as equals in our interactions with others.
Unfortunately, not everyone we encounter treats us this way–some people may outwardly seem polite or friendly, but their subtle actions can reveal an inner sense of superiority.
Whether it’s through dismissive remarks or condescending behaviors, these people often communicate their feelings in ways that are easy to overlook.
In this article, I will share with you nine signs that someone secretly thinks they’re above you.
These signs can help you identify and address situations where you might not be treated with the respect and equality you deserve:
1) They often interrupt
Interrupting is more than just a bad habit.
Over time, you may notice that this person frequently cuts you off while you’re speaking or doesn’t allow you to finish your thoughts.
This could be because they believe their ideas, opinions or stories are more important than yours—they might even be quick to dismiss your thoughts, eager to steer the conversation back to themselves or their own interests.
In some cases, they might not even realize they’re doing it.
But, unfortunately for you, that doesn’t make it any less disrespectful or indicative of their perceived superiority.
Everyone deserves to be heard and valued in a conversation.
2) They hardly ask about your life
It’s common courtesy to show interest in others by asking about their day, their interests, or their feelings as it’s a way of showing that you care and value them.
However, if you find that someone rarely, if ever, asks about your life, it could be a sign they think they’re superior to you.
They might not ask because they believe your experiences are unimportant or less interesting compared to theirs.
This lack of curiosity can also stem from narcissism—a trait where individuals have an inflated sense of their own importance and a deep need for admiration, often overshadowing the needs and feelings of others.
3) They compliment you excessively
Compliments are generally a good thing, right? Well, not always.
Constantly showering you with praise—that feels over the top or out of place—could be because they feel the need to reassure you about your worth.
By doing so is subtly implying that they consider themselves to be in a position to judge your value.
While it’s nice to be appreciated, take note if the compliments seem insincere or excessive, it might be a sign that this person sees themselves as superior to you.
4) They belittle your achievements
Hard work should be acknowledged and celebrated, but if that someone consistently downplays your successes or achievements, then that’s a red flag.
Maybe you’ve just landed a promotion or finished a marathon, but instead of congratulating you, they’ll find ways to belittle it.
You could expect them to say things like “It’s just a small company” or “I could do that if I tried”.
A behavior like this is more than just mean—it’s a way for them to keep you ‘below’ them, to maintain their self-perceived status.
5) They never say sorry
We all make mistakes—it’s a part of being human.
Owning up to those mistakes and apologizing is a fundamental part of maintaining respectful and equal relationships.
Someone who never apologizes, even when they’re clearly in the wrong, could mean that they see themselves as above you and anyone else standing in their way.
To them, apologizing is beneath them or that they’re always right, regardless of the situation.
It takes strength and humility to apologize; if they can’t bring themselves to say sorry to you, then that’s a loss on their end.
In such situations, be kind to yourself and understand that their inability to apologize is more about them than it is about you.
6) They’re always the hero in their stories
We all love to share our success stories.
But, have you ever noticed that someone always seems to be the hero of their tales, never the one at fault or the one who learned a lesson?
They’re always the smartest person in the room, always the one who solved the problem, and they never seem to have moments of weakness or failure.
Many of us can relate to this situation—having that one person in our lives who never seems to do any wrong in their own eyes.
This constant need to portray themselves in a perfect light? I say “boo!” to that.
7) They constantly correct you
A little friendly correction now and then can be helpful, especially when it’s about something important.
Sadly, there’s always that certain someone who’s always correcting you over trivial matters or in a condescending manner.
Correcting your pronunciation of a word in the middle of a conversation or pointing out a tiny mistake in that story you’re telling–all with a smug look on their face—is as if they’re saying, “I know better than you.”
While it can be annoying, try to treat it with a pinch of humor.
After all, nobody’s perfect—not even them.
8) They disrespect your boundaries
Boundaries are crucial in any relationship because they give us a sense of personal space and respect.
Should someone consistently cross these boundaries without remorse, then that’s something you should be wary of.
For example: Borrowing your things without asking or making decisions on your behalf without your input. Regardless of the severity, it’s a blatant disregard for your feelings and autonomy.
It’s tough to hear, but you need to stand firm—don’t let them bulldoze over your boundaries.
You deserve respect and anyone who refuses to give you that is not worth your time or energy.
9) They treat you as an inferior
Perhaps the most telling sign that someone thinks they’re above you is if they consistently treat you as an inferior.
This can manifest in different ways–from patronizing language, dismissive behavior, and a lack of respect, to a constant feeling that you’re being looked down upon.
Absolutely no one has the right to belittle you or consider you less, because you are valuable and deserving of respect just as much as anyone else.
No matter the situation or who the person is, always remember that your worth is not determined by how others see you, but by how you see yourself—stand tall and know your worth.
Wrapping up
As noted psychologist Dr. Brene Brown said, “We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known, and when we honor the spiritual connection that grows from that offering with trust, respect, kindness, and affection.”
In a healthy relationship, may it be romantic or platonic, both people should feel valued and respected—if you often feel inferior or undervalued, it’s worth reassessing that connection.
This is about recognizing behaviors that may harm your self-esteem and well-being and identifying these signs is the first step, and seeking professional support can help if needed.
Remember, everyone deserves respect and kindness—including you!
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