15 Things That “Feel Rude” But Really Aren’t

11. 

“Waking into a restaurant and then walking out without getting anything. You might think the cook will be offended but they’re probably just relieved that they don’t have to do more work.” — DeadInsideWiggs

12. 

“Correcting someone if they mispronounce my name.” — abbrollher

13. 

Accepting a gift with a simple ‘thank you.'” — excusetheblood

14. 

“Telling people what you want as far as your boundaries.” — VeryBun

15. 

“Saying you need space/time to yourself. I don’t know why, but it always feels like i’m being rude when I tell people this, even though it’s just part of life and needing some alone time/time to think and reflect.” — jadeashinouterspace

More slightly awkward moments:

Patricia Grisafi

Patricia Grisafi, PhD, is a freelance writer and educator. Her work has appeared in Salon, Vice, Bitch, Bustle, Broadly, The Establishment, and elsewhere. She is passionate about pit bull rescue, cursed objects, and designer sunglasses.