I had an epiphany a few moments ago. People suck. Wait – that’s harsh and untrue. Not all people suck. But some sure as hell do.

First things first: You can’t make assumptions about a person and then punish them for your misguided perceptions. Try talking to them first. Understand who they are and where they’re coming from. At least attempt it, sheesh.

Take me, for example. At this point in my life, I am on a mission to get from Point A to Point B and beyond. I want to better myself and those around me. Carrying unnecessary baggage on this journey is not an option, so do my best to be honest to others and to myself.

“No, I can’t hang out tonight. I have work to do, but I’m free next weekend.”

“I have a serious procrastination problem, so I’m trying to stick to a schedule.”

“I’m not looking for a serious relationship. I’m just taking things day by day and enjoying life. If it happens, it happens.”

See? It’s really not hard. Yet and still, some people choose to ignore the honesty, make unnecessary assumptions, and then get mad. Why are you mad? Chill. Just chill.

Communication is a two-way street that people don’t like to travel, for some reason. Be honest and be receptive. Say what you mean and accept what others say. Engage each other. Now don’t get me wrong. Reading between the lines is a part of unspoken communication, but creating entire fiction novels isn’t, so stop.

Don’t let this be that moment when you choose to dismiss the truth. Learn to communicate and stop making assumptions.

Perhaps fewer people will suck.