New York City is known for its rudeness. While I am fortunate enough to be surrounded regularly by people (co-workers, friends, and family) who go out of their way to show kindness, I am the last person to pretend that in a city this dense and this competitive that you are not going to come across some jerks.

However, I have noticed people, native New Yorkers and transplants alike, actively taking on the rude persona like it’s a badge of honor; as if being a douche some how makes people respect you or admire you more. In addition to the attitude presented in this article I have heard so many people (transplants especially) say something like this:

“Gosh I’ve become a real dick to my friends. Like, now I don’t even listen to them. The City really changes you.”

All this demonstrates is that you are emotionally stunted.

If you are aware of the fact that you are an ass, then you are aware enough to change that behavior. Not doing so means that you enjoy being an ass.

And where does this rudeness come from? Are your friends rude? Are your co-workers rude? Family? Or is it from the 20 minutes you spend on the subway?

Does NYC toughen you up? Sure. Does it mean you have to be cruel? No way. Listen to those people who call you out on your foolishness--don'y brush them off because they "don't understand the grittiness of city living." Don't fall into the hype--rudeness does not equal coolness.

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