Why Most People Are Full of Shit, and How to Not Be One of Them

Have you joined my incredibly non-annoying, once-in-a-while email newsletter?

Another in the series “How to be Taken Seriously.” This time, we’ll focus on not being full of shit and increase succesful networking.

I’ve got an exercise for you. For the next seven days, make a concerted effort to count how many people with whom you come in contact who end your conversation with “I’ll call you,” or “Let’s get coffee!” or “We should connect for a drink!”

In two weeks, go back and visit the list you made, and see how many of them followed up on their suggestion.

The answer will more than likely be “none.”

We live in a world where 99% of the people you meet are full of shit. It just is. It’s not up for debate, it’s not a scientific fact, it just is. I think this is the case for several reasons, but the most logical one is as follows: We all want to be thought of as “The nice guy.” Ironically, by doing this, we usually come across as full of shit, as opposed to the nice guy. If we play the nice guy role in the beginning “Call me! Happy to help!” Or “Let’s get coffee!” and then never follow up, or cancel plans, or never answer the resulting email, not only are we blowing our “nice guy” persona, but then we’re proven as even worse than a “not nice guy,” we’re proven to be full of shit. At least if you’re not nice and honest, you’re true. But being nice on the surface and never returning the call moves you from “nice” to “not nice” to “full of shit.” And that’s the worst place to be.

Others are full of shit because they only look out for themselves, feel the need to attempt to win by taking everyone else down, or simply put, just don’t care. Whatever the reason, just look around – there’s no doubt we’re living in a world full of people who are just full of shit. I’m on an Amtrak as I write this, and the guy next to me just got off his phone with a “OK, you too – Totally have to get together, no doubt, I’ll call you!” He hangs up, and under his breath, as he’s shaking his head, he mutters, “douche.”

So if that’s the case, there’s one really awesome thing you can take out of it. If everyone is full of shit, it’s never been easier to be at the top of your game and own the playing field. Think about it – It’s the same logic as the kinda-thin girl who hangs out with fat girls – By comparison, she looks hot. If everyone else spends their time disappointing everyone else, all you have to do is rise 1% above the fray, and you win it all.

So here’s how:

1) Exceed relatively low expectations. Again – We don’t expect much out of people anymore. Used to be we’d expect stellar service on all counts – Whether it was the windshield being washed when we pulled up to the gas station, or our meal being brought to our table – that’s pretty much gone nowadays.

Sure, it’s awesome to set the bar totally high and exceed it. And I’m not saying don’t do that. But focus on building your reputation piece by piece. If you don’t want to have coffee with someone, don’t suggest it as you’re saying goodbye after your first meeting. If you DO want to have coffee with someone, why not suggest a Skype call, and when you email to follow up, upgrade it to coffee. Start off low and grow quickly. It’s the easiest thing in the world to do.

2) Do “unexpected followup” daily. I have a big, big stack of business cards. Probably over 3,500, 4,000 cards. These are people I’ve met once, usually at a conference or trade show. They’re not “contacts,” per se, but they’re also not complete strangers. I keep these cards in a giant fish bowl on my desk, where people who don’t constantly worry about their weight would keep candy. Each day, I pull ten cards out, and email the people on them, just to say hi. No selling, not even that much talking about me – Just asking about them. How are they, what are they working on, etc. This keeps me “top of mind,” and does two other things: Brings some of those people from “quasi-contacts” to “clients,” and as beneficial, makes me first in their mind when someone they know asks if they know anyone who does what I do. Added bonus? I get to say hi. Nice touch.

3) Do the little things no one else does. You have any idea how many times I show up at early morning meetings with donuts? I call it “Insta-Hero.” It’s incredibly easy to be the Insta-Hero. Show up to an early morning meeting with Donuts. Make sure there’s a full bowl of candy on your desk when people come by. ALWAYS carry a pen, a stick of gum, and a lighter. (And not just for people who smoke – Lighters can act as a scissor and burn down a loose thread, among millions of other uses.) Be the one who always does the little things, and you’ll be the one people turn to when they have a budget to spend.

4) Find out what people are doing. If you had any idea on how many people I have Google Alerts, you’d call me the King of Stalking. But in fact, those alerts are one of the most helpful tools in my arsenal. Someone gets quoted? Drop a congratulatory note. Someone gets promoted? Send cookies. Someone takes a new job? Send a six pack. It’s not hard, doesn’t cost a lot, and keeps you well above the fold of mediocrity. Why? Because no one else does it. Again – When most people are full of shit, it doesn’t take that much to not be! So don’t be! Everyone wins! (Especially you!)

5) For God’s sake, if you do nothing else, just be nice! A smile goes a hell of a long way towards proving you’re not full of shit. Just by being a touch nicer – Offering to help someone put their bag in the overhead compartment, letting the obviously time-crunched person go ahead of you at Starbucks… You never know where these small, innocent acts can lead – But yo do know this – If they lead anywhere, they start off with the other person believing you’re in fact, NOT full of shit – And from there, it’s up to you to keep proving that.

Have fun. And if I missed anything, tell me in the comments.

___

I am available now for virtual keynote speaking / digital keynote speaking opportunities. My virtual keynote / digital keynote talks are engaging, inspiring, and full of real-world ideas and practices that companies can immediately implement to build their business and increase their revenue. Reach out to me to find out how I can skyrocket your next event.

Join the discussion 174 Comments

  • Thank you for your advise , we live in a hypocritical world……..

  • Thank you for your advise , we live in a hypocritical world……..

  • crystal says:

    Wow you sure hit the nail on the head, Every thing you wrote is true. I am guilty of some but not all and after reading this I am sure going to try to be a better person thats not full of shit..

  • crystal says:

    Wow you sure hit the nail on the head, Every thing you wrote is true. I am guilty of some but not all and after reading this I am sure going to try to be a better person thats not full of shit..

  • Sam says:

    but wouldn’t doing all this also boost your full-of-shitness? It’s making you feel special by “not being full of shit”. I suppose being not full of shit is not caring about your “image” to other people. What do y’all think?

  • Sam says:

    but wouldn’t doing all this also boost your full-of-shitness? It’s making you feel special by “not being full of shit”. I suppose being not full of shit is not caring about your “image” to other people. What do y’all think?

  • Phil says:

    Yeah cos doing “nice” things to gain an edge isn’t being full of shit, is it?

    • Ryan Hackett says:

      “nice”? So, you’re implying the things mentioned in number 5 wern’t really nice? So, when somebody does something for you, are you like, “I’m on to you! I know what your agenda is!!”?

      • John says:

        No, ass hat, they’re saying going out of your way to get brownie points with everyone is about as full of shit as you can get. There is a massive difference between being a nice person and simply not being full of shit, they are not mutually inclusive of each other.

        • Matthew says:

          Check out Mr Shit-britches over here! Spreading the contents of them britches over the surface of the earth like a dog with a nasty hemorrhoid. Stankin’ up the place with his ass-brownies! Have some ass brownie points.

    • pain says:

      Yeah Phil.So what’s your philosophy?Do shit nasty things?
      That means you are full of shit pal.

  • Phil says:

    Yeah cos doing “nice” things to gain an edge isn’t being full of shit, is it?

    • Ryan Hackett says:

      “nice”? So, you’re implying the things mentioned in number 5 wern’t really nice? So, when somebody does something for you, are you like, “I’m on to you! I know what your agenda is!!”?

    • Ryan Hackett says:

      “nice”? So, you’re implying the things mentioned in number 5 wern’t really nice? So, when somebody does something for you, are you like, “I’m on to you! I know what your agenda is!!”?

    • Janet Witt says:

      He’s an asshole too. ha ha ha ha!!

  • cheffdaddy says:

    If what you are saying, Tom, is that you smell a little “shit” in some of these ideas, I would have to agree. I am all for genuine responses, genuine connections and genuine acts of kindness. If there is a pre-design to one’s behavior intended to reap a personal, financial, or professional reward, then that is not being genuine and, hence, is full of shit. The true measure of a person’s character is what they do when no one is looking and all the reward is intrinsic. Now, that said, it is equally obvious that some of our actions are outward and are noticed by others; however, it is the motive behind the action the measures the person.

  • cheffdaddy says:

    If what you are saying, Tom, is that you smell a little “shit” in some of these ideas, I would have to agree. I am all for genuine responses, genuine connections and genuine acts of kindness. If there is a pre-design to one’s behavior intended to reap a personal, financial, or professional reward, then that is not being genuine and, hence, is full of shit. The true measure of a person’s character is what they do when no one is looking and all the reward is intrinsic. Now, that said, it is equally obvious that some of our actions are outward and are noticed by others; however, it is the motive behind the action the measures the person.

  • Had_enough_of_shit says:

    it’s not that hard just being decent to another human being, if you promise something, unless something very serious comes up, just fulfill the damn promise, its a respectful thing to do, we’re supposed to be more than animals but humans today are way below worse animals, they are ordinary shit… why is it so hard to be decent and just keep your word?!!!!! Well done for the post, finally someone decent, someone who could be called a person, not a piece of shit flesh

  • Had_enough_of_shit says:

    it’s not that hard just being decent to another human being, if you promise something, unless something very serious comes up, just fulfill the damn promise, its a respectful thing to do, we’re supposed to be more than animals but humans today are way below worse animals, they are ordinary shit… why is it so hard to be decent and just keep your word?!!!!! Well done for the post, finally someone decent, someone who could be called a person, not a piece of shit flesh

  • I am all about “keeping it real” and telling the truth. I always try to stay true to myself, on my blog, in real life, and in social media. I can only be me; I don’t know who else to be.

  • I am all about “keeping it real” and telling the truth. I always try to stay true to myself, on my blog, in real life, and in social media. I can only be me; I don’t know who else to be.

  • Spike says:

    I do goods deeds all the time an Dont expect to get any benefits from doing it either.

  • Spike says:

    I do goods deeds all the time an Dont expect to get any benefits from doing it either.

  • Spike says:

    I do goods deeds all the time an Dont expect to get any benefits from doing it either.

  • Spike says:

    I do goods deeds all the time an Dont expect to get any benefits from doing it either.

  • Spike says:

    I do goods deeds all the time an Dont expect to get any benefits from doing it either.

  • joseph orlando says:

    Just like greeting someone by saying “How are you?” People say that to me all the time
    Would they really listen
    10 or 15 minutes while you really answer their question. Probably not!

  • joseph orlando says:

    Just like greeting someone by saying “How are you?” People say that to me all the time
    Would they really listen
    10 or 15 minutes while you really answer their question. Probably not!

  • joseph orlando says:

    Just like greeting someone by saying “How are you?” People say that to me all the time
    Would they really listen
    10 or 15 minutes while you really answer their question. Probably not!

  • joseph orlando says:

    Just like greeting someone by saying “How are you?” People say that to me all the time
    Would they really listen
    10 or 15 minutes while you really answer their question. Probably not!

  • joseph orlando says:

    Just like greeting someone by saying “How are you?” People say that to me all the time
    Would they really listen
    10 or 15 minutes while you really answer their question. Probably not!

  • me says:

    still just a means of extracting money from people pre planned nicety lol

  • me says:

    still just a means of extracting money from people pre planned nicety lol

  • me says:

    still just a means of extracting money from people pre planned nicety lol

  • Ryan Hackett says:

    It’s funny to see how these articles upset people. I think they hit a sensitive spot; truth.

  • Ryan Hackett says:

    It’s funny to see how these articles upset people. I think they hit a sensitive spot; truth.

  • Ryan Hackett says:

    It’s funny to see how these articles upset people. I think they hit a sensitive spot; truth.

  • Ernest says:

    That is why we can always trust God. He is there for us anytime, anywhere, etc. He is totally reliable. He never lets us down.

    But, people, including your own friends and family members, would disappoint you.

    I feel sorry for those who put all trust in someone. If so, expect the unexpected to happen.

    • Agnosticguy says:

      The bible is full of shit…:P

      • Your mom says:

        Ernest didn’t say one damn thing about the Bible. Go to an AA meeting, and learn what God is.

    • Dan says:

      Hi Ernest, But wouldn’t it be comforting to have a friend you could trust if even for a little while?

  • Ernest says:

    That is why we can always trust God. He is there for us anytime, anywhere, etc. He is totally reliable. He never lets us down.

    But, people, including your own friends and family members, would disappoint you.

    I feel sorry for those who put all trust in someone. If so, expect the unexpected to happen.

    • Agnosticguy says:

      The bible is full of shit…:P

      • Your mom says:

        Ernest didn’t say one damn thing about the Bible. Go to an AA meeting, and learn what God is.

    • Dan says:

      Hi Ernest, But wouldn’t it be comforting to have a friend you could trust if even for a little while?

  • Ernest says:

    That is why we can always trust God. He is there for us anytime, anywhere, etc. He is totally reliable. He never lets us down.

    But, people, including your own friends and family members, would disappoint you.

    I feel sorry for those who put all trust in someone. If so, expect the unexpected to happen.

    • Dan says:

      Hi Ernest, But wouldn’t it be comforting to have a friend you could trust if even for a little while?

  • Ernest says:

    That is why we can always trust God. He is there for us anytime, anywhere, etc. He is totally reliable. He never lets us down.

    But, people, including your own friends and family members, would disappoint you.

    I feel sorry for those who put all trust in someone. If so, expect the unexpected to happen.

    • Dan says:

      Hi Ernest, But wouldn’t it be comforting to have a friend you could trust if even for a little while?

  • Ernest says:

    That is why we can always trust God. He is there for us anytime, anywhere, etc. He is totally reliable. He never lets us down.

    But, people, including your own friends and family members, would disappoint you.

    I feel sorry for those who put all trust in someone. If so, expect the unexpected to happen.

    • Dan says:

      Hi Ernest, But wouldn’t it be comforting to have a friend you could trust if even for a little while?

  • Ernest says:

    That is why we can always trust God. He is there for us anytime, anywhere, etc. He is totally reliable. He never lets us down.

    But, people, including your own friends and family members, would disappoint you.

    I feel sorry for those who put all trust in someone. If so, expect the unexpected to happen.

    • Dan says:

      Hi Ernest, But wouldn’t it be comforting to have a friend you could trust if even for a little while?

  • Dissapointed says:

    Phil hits the nail on the head

  • Dissapointed says:

    Phil hits the nail on the head

  • Dissapointed says:

    Phil hits the nail on the head

  • Dissapointed says:

    Phil hits the nail on the head

  • Dissapointed says:

    Phil hits the nail on the head

  • Dissapointed says:

    Phil hits the nail on the head

  • Michael Flood says:

    We are all full of shit 😛 100%

  • Michael Flood says:

    We are all full of shit 😛 100%

  • Michael Flood says:

    We are all full of shit 😛 100%

  • Michael Flood says:

    We are all full of shit 😛 100%

  • Michael Flood says:

    We are all full of shit 😛 100%

  • Michael Flood says:

    We are all full of shit 😛 100%

  • Nick says:

    This started out good and ended as full of shit. You say to do these things to make your better than everyone else which contradicts what you said in the beginning. How about instead of doing it to be better you do it because its a nice thing to do. Not everyone should carry a lighter and call random business cards to have these people contact you when “they have a budget”. That once again is to just better yourself. How about the golden rule, do onto others as you would want done onto you. Would you wan someone to bullshit and say lets have coffee? No, so don’t do it to them. This applies for all aspects of life. Every single dilemma you could encounter is easily solved by this.

    • shankman says:

      Want to grab some coffee and chat, Nick? You seem pissed off – I can see how this article might have disturbed you, but should never have been annoying enough to get you into such a rant. So something else is bothering you. What is it? Want to chat about it? Can I help?

    • Nick nack says:

      That’s very interesting Nick.You aren’t full of shit at all.
      No.You are a solid cunt.

  • Nick says:

    This started out good and ended as full of shit. You say to do these things to make your better than everyone else which contradicts what you said in the beginning. How about instead of doing it to be better you do it because its a nice thing to do. Not everyone should carry a lighter and call random business cards to have these people contact you when “they have a budget”. That once again is to just better yourself. How about the golden rule, do onto others as you would want done onto you. Would you wan someone to bullshit and say lets have coffee? No, so don’t do it to them. This applies for all aspects of life. Every single dilemma you could encounter is easily solved by this.

    • shankman says:

      Want to grab some coffee and chat, Nick? You seem pissed off – I can see how this article might have disturbed you, but should never have been annoying enough to get you into such a rant. So something else is bothering you. What is it? Want to chat about it? Can I help?

  • Siwan says:

    Smiling is A “full of shit” action in my opinion pretty much 99% of the time, good interesting post though.

  • Siwan says:

    Smiling is A “full of shit” action in my opinion pretty much 99% of the time, good interesting post though.

  • Siwan says:

    Smiling is A “full of shit” action in my opinion pretty much 99% of the time, good interesting post though.

  • Siwan says:

    Smiling is A “full of shit” action in my opinion pretty much 99% of the time, good interesting post though.

  • Siwan says:

    Smiling is A “full of shit” action in my opinion pretty much 99% of the time, good interesting post though.

  • Siwan says:

    Smiling is A “full of shit” action in my opinion pretty much 99% of the time, good interesting post though.

  • Chub says:

    I don’t know how to do coffee. What happens?

  • Chub says:

    I don’t know how to do coffee. What happens?

  • Dave says:

    People are inherently shit from the inside out. Only decent people try not to be the shit that they are and sometimes succeed! Not often though. Humans are the vermin of the earth and without them the world would be a great place. Humans turn it to shit

    • Peter Vujin says:

      I’m naturally good, I can’t even imagine that most are shit. But, they are.

    • Peter Vujin says:

      I’m naturally good, I can’t even imagine that most are shit. But, they are.

    • Peter Vujin says:

      I’m naturally good, I can’t even imagine that most are shit. But, they are.

    • FullofSh**t says:

      Dave is actually a battery farmed chicken and so his comments should be taken on board but put in context.

  • Tea says:

    Just be yourself, no need to kiss up

  • Si Bur says:

    I’ve been doing the above list and more for years, always went above and beyond, helped people when they had no one, constantly tried to keep in contact with people, organize lovely events for them, pick them up thoughtful gifts to let them know I care. What did I get in return? Treated like shit, stolen from, my credit ruined, heart broken and simply told they don’t care about our friendship. Being a great person was rewarding 50years ago, people have degenerated into pure selfishness since then. If you don’t enjoy being fucked over constantly, lied to and used, then develop a thick skin and learn to become an asshole. It’s the only way to survive without being everyones doormat and constantly being reduced to tears while wondering ‘why? I was good to them. why would they do this to me?’. Family is no different, most of the time they’re worse than anyone else.

    • Lily Abril says:

      I agree with you and what you posted

    • Flippin Swift says:

      Si Bur, you’re my hero glad you have made this comment. As I’ve been in your situation more then once and it does hurt. Hence why I enjoy being a eccentric hermit in my hood.

    • Nᴉʞlɐs Dä̶n̶n̶í̶ H4ns3n says:

      I agree.. humanity is a lost cause..

    • Camil Gagnon says:

      Well said. The current state of affair is sad indeed, but all we can do, if not wasting our energy on those who don’the deserve it, is at least being nice. Hatred and selfishness are contagious, it can be tempting to become an asshole, but I truly believe things will turn around eventually. History is a cycle and people usually recognize that being nice is still better after a long phase of generalized selfishness and assholery.

  • Aaron says:

    I absolutely love this article and have shared it dozens of times with my staff, my coworkers, my friends. It’s life-changing.

  • Rich says:

    It’s not that you give a shit,you are full of shit.

  • Joe says:

    No Anne.The whole point of the article is that 99% of people are shit,remember?
    Obviously the other 1% miss the point?

  • lesbian says:

    Thanks dawn,us wimmin should stick together as we ate not full of shit like men,

    • Peter Vujin says:

      You should be gassed.

    • Peter Vujin says:

      You should be gassed.

    • Peter Vujin says:

      You should be gassed.

    • Schanrfengargle says:

      “Full of shit like men” Two wrongs don’t make a right. Obviously you are a prejudging men. Regardless, the author of this forum/blog whatever you would call it, has made a true statement. Girls will hang out with less good looking ones to stand out from the crowd. I’m not saying that they all do that, but it does happen. People are pretty ruthless like that. People will exploit and treat others like shit. I don’t do that, but others do. So don’t judge all of us men like that, or you are simply as I stated about. The kind of person that treats others like shit based on one opinion of a bloggers statement.

  • Dustin says:

    You said be nice? That’s not human nature we hate each other. We destroy. People are full of shit because they are so afraid of everything. Who they are. What they want. Death. What others think, People are full of shit not to deceive others but themselves. Most people can’t accept what they are.

  • patrick says:

    yeah not a fan of a lot of the comments assuming that reaping benefits of kindness means that you weren’t being kind at all and you’re just full of shit. Being nice is being nice full stop. I don’t get why you guys think you have to deny any good that comes of it to be considered not full of shit? I mean when someone brings donuts to a meeting do you actually think ‘god he/she’s so full of shit trying to win me over with donuts’ no you fuckin dont you eat em and feel happier because they did you a service so shut up and sit down.

  • Rico says:

    If you have to follow a few steps just to prove you’re not full of shit, then chances are you probably are full of shit. Nobody’s perfect and at this point who cares what people think. If people think you are full of shit then so be it. Being nice all the time in this society will get u ran over!

  • Peter Vujin says:

    What offensive (!) remark?

  • Peter Vujin says:

    What offensive (!) remark?

  • Peter Vujin says:

    What offensive (!) remark?

  • Jesse Ridley Jr. says:

    Why pch is fos

  • Jesse Ridley Jr. says:

    Why pch is fos

  • ugh says:

    you seem pleasant

  • ugh says:

    you seem pleasant

  • ugh says:

    you seem pleasant

  • ugh says:

    you seem pleasant

  • ugh says:

    you seem pleasant

  • ugh says:

    you seem pleasant

  • Schnarfengargle says:

    Man, that’s a very fair point my friend. Sometimes you just can’t be assed. 😛

  • ocdhd says:

    P.S. I read every post from everyone else who is Full of Shit! —- Syke! I’m just full of shit!

  • sma says:

    at 66 yrs…2 tours in vietnam…chemo…37 radiation treatments 16 yrs ago…70% va disability..part time job…ptsd…i dont believe anything i hear…most of anything i see…and none of the bullshit i see.

  • guano girl says:

    When I think of people who are FOS, I think of the guy who sits next to me at work. He’s always inflating his achievements, e.g., telling co-workers that he walks 70-80 miles per week, and that he’s lost 50 pounds recently. (It would be more believable if he weren’t borderline obese.)
    This is a little different from what you’re talking about, but this sort of FOS is also annoying. He leads with a “look-at-me, I’m so amazing” attitude, so I’ve come assume that–whatever he says–cut it by one-third to one-half. When he tells me a story about (for example) the arduous “7 mile walk” he did from Point A to Point B yesterday, does he really think I can’t check it on Google Earth (and, gee, it’s actually no more than 4 miles)? This crap is insulting–it insinuates you’re too stupid to recognize their BS…that or they *believe* the BS they spout. Maybe I should feel sorry for someone like this, that he feels the need to make himself look better. Too bad the strategy backfires…

  • guano girl says:

    When I think of people who are FOS, I think of the guy who sits next to me at work. He’s always inflating his achievements, e.g., telling co-workers that he walks 70-80 miles per week, and that he’s lost 50 pounds recently. (It would be more believable if he weren’t borderline obese.)
    This is a little different from what you’re talking about, but this sort of FOS is also annoying. He leads with a “look-at-me, I’m so amazing” attitude, so I’ve come assume that–whatever he says–cut it by one-third to one-half. When he tells me a story about (for example) the arduous “7 mile walk” he did from Point A to Point B yesterday, does he really think I can’t check it on Google Earth (and, gee, it’s actually no more than 4 miles)? This crap is insulting–it insinuates you’re too stupid to recognize their BS…that or they *believe* the BS they spout. Maybe I should feel sorry for someone like this, that he feels the need to make himself look better. Too bad the strategy backfires…

  • guano girl says:

    When I think of people who are FOS, I think of the guy who sits next to me at work. He’s always inflating his achievements, e.g., telling co-workers that he walks 70-80 miles per week, and that he’s lost 50 pounds recently. (It would be more believable if he weren’t borderline obese.)
    This is a little different from what you’re talking about, but this sort of FOS is also annoying. He leads with a “look-at-me, I’m so amazing” attitude, so I’ve come assume that–whatever he says–cut it by one-third to one-half. When he tells me a story about (for example) the arduous “7 mile walk” he did from Point A to Point B yesterday, does he really think I can’t check it on Google Earth (and, gee, it’s actually no more than 4 miles)? This crap is insulting–it insinuates you’re too stupid to recognize their BS…that or they *believe* the BS they spout. Maybe I should feel sorry for someone like this, that he feels the need to make himself look better. Too bad the strategy backfires…

  • Dan says:

    You probably think that someone else should pay for your birth control pills.

  • Dan says:

    You probably think that someone else should pay for your birth control pills.

  • Dan says:

    You probably think that someone else should pay for your birth control pills.

  • DynasPita says:

    What people need to get through their heads is that this post was not about being a better human being…it’s about how to get ahead of others by doing things to keep potential clients or people of interest’s memory of you positive.

  • DynasPita says:

    What people need to get through their heads is that this post was not about being a better human being…it’s about how to get ahead of others by doing things to keep potential clients or people of interest’s memory of you positive.

  • DynasPita says:

    What people need to get through their heads is that this post was not about being a better human being…it’s about how to get ahead of others by doing things to keep potential clients or people of interest’s memory of you positive.

  • DynasPita says:

    What people need to get through their heads is that this post was not about being a better human being…it’s about how to get ahead of others by doing things to keep potential clients or people of interest’s memory of you positive.

  • DynasPita says:

    What people need to get through their heads is that this post was not about being a better human being…it’s about how to get ahead of others by doing things to keep potential clients or people of interest’s memory of you positive.

  • The Thinker says:

    This is a very interesting topic. Frankly people are struggling in an economy that hasn’t been this challenging since the 1930’s depression. So people are full of shit because everyone is trying to survive in this rat race of life. Often in the past when people like my self have been sincere I have gotten screwed so it made me a little biased and jaded toward humanity. I am not proud of this but I am being honest. Can anyone relate to this.

  • The Thinker says:

    I have also worked in an environment with back stabbers and have been honest and not phony only to get fired because I called them out on their bs and let them know I didn’t like them. So it seems like being phony is necessary to survive.

  • xkale says:

    This article is full of shit. I’m sorry nobody got the irony 🙂

  • Aaron says:

    I love this article!

    I was introduced to it years ago as required reading for a management meeting, and the lessons have stuck with me ever since. I share it with people whenever given the opportunity!

    Thanks for the wisdom and keep up the great work!

    -Aaron

  • spoofman says:

    You’re all nice in a mental way ( premeditated, like a con artist). Not from the heart, natural. Makes you even more full of shit than anyone!

  • FullofSh**t says:

    Amber, come on! Is that all you want to be, an advocate for clients? Does that mean professionally that you’ll say whatever makes your client look good no matter about the reality of your client? The thing that really makes you stand out for others is being genuine and not full of shite – people are not that stupid – they can tell the difference between advocating for a client and real feelings and thoughts. Gosh – your comment depressed me. It’s like someone took a person, melted them down and then reprinted them in corporate colours. Don’t mean to pick on you – in fact I don’t mean to be mean at all – but come on. Forget about pulling someone’s business card out of a bowl and just be genuinely interested in other people – if some fakey hands you a business card – bin it – if someone really interesting and inspiring meets you and wants to work with you go out for a coffee and talk to them. In fact the whole artcle was cool until the point where the top tips had us strategising about not being full of shit. I’m in the media business and there is a ton of shit talked – but its people just getting a bit excited and then they look at their diaries and go ‘oops’ I cant have coffees with all these people. I think just stay genuine and people will appreciate that. Yay!

    • FullofSh**t says:

      I realsie that I’m three years too late for this conversation lol. I hope the career is going well

  • Lala says:

    People are full of shit because the truth may not be their first priority. Everyone is full of shit. It’s part of human nature. Some people who tend to be more self-aware modify their behaviors to reflect their authentic self. But really, life is easier when you simpy accept that people are full of it. It leads to lower expectations.

  • Steven says:

    Agreed, people are full of shit…

    I was the nice guy, I used to help people that were in need (like money), every time I went over to see them rather than them putting in effort to see me, I was always nice to people regardless and even stood by those being bullied, I was nice to most people. I try to help people by giving them advice but of course there way was always the best, they’d never listen and always follow the crowd, they were poor.

    I just feel that being not full of shit doesn’t really get you anywhere, I’ll go to an interview and be honest, they won’t accept me in. Being the nice guy just leads to disappointment because regardless of what you do people won’t change, the world won’t change politically because everyone’s in it for themselves and their group, unfortunately in this world it’s a rat race, few people can get their heads around themselves, they just want what’s best for them and their families, without a damn about the poor, homeless, people struggling. And I find that even they are full of shit too. People are quick to insult and judge without any prethought into what they’re saying, I think being full of shit goes hand in hand with being dumb.

    And of course, when you point them out on this they’ll make out as if you’re the problem, basically they think they don’t need to change as they’re fine now, they don’t change and never will.

    • Beakman says:

      Your statement reads as judgmental and self righteous. It’s important to acknowledge the validity of another’s point of view, especially in regards to their own life. What we like to think of as objective advice is likely to be colored by our own experiences, and may not be the sage wisdom that we believe it to be; or it could be great advice, but everyone has their own inner life, so our advice may or may not fit their framework. That’s just part of humanity. You said that you were nice, then proceeded to mildly insult anyone who has ever rejected your advice. Advice is meant to offer another perspective or option, not stroke the advisors ego. Maybe it’s time to call into question your true level of bullshit?

      I think that real the trouble stems for being inauthentic. Authentically nice people (Ellen Degeneres) can thrive on their niceness, and assholes can thrive on their assholery (Howard Stern). Those people are being who they naturally are. Being nice doesn’t mean being a doormat, as that sort of niceness is about people pleasing, and people pleasing is (oddly enough) about self.

      Again, it sounds as though you have a hard time accepting people who are not you. You seem to hold yourself in pretty high regard– self esteem is great– but self righteousness does not translate into nice. I cannot call myself nice. I’ll hold a door and the like, even go out of my way to help, but I’m pretty pissed at the world. I think that most of us are selfish, absent mindedness pisses me off, I prefer to be away in nature where it’s peaceful, and I have a hard time wrapping my head around why we exist. I’ll admit that this also screams of unwarranted self righteousness. I love humanity the way that a pain in the ass loves a pain in the ass sibling: They’re a piece of shit, but so are you. You feel an obligation to love them because you ARE family.

      It feels great to acknowledge when you’re full of shit. It opens up a whole new freedom of self, and leads to deeper authenticity.

  • Mark Grey says:

    Every morning I wake up and I’m full of shit. Cup of coffee, scratch my ass and after a visit to the men’s room I’m clean and light on my feet again.

  • Anonymous says:

    I saw that many people are full of shit not because they wanted to act nice, but because they bully people, back stab people, take advantage of other people, and don’t care about other people at all. No heart, no conscience, cold blooded, sugar face, black inside. They claim they have the rights to this and that, and take no responsibility or if it is their obligation, avoid it (one example is more than 70%, 80% of people don’t even flush the toilet in a public restroom). Some people smile, but only as a “technique” to get what they want.

  • Werdna says:

    Just be ourselves and ignored those people who give us shit! What goes around comes around ya!

  • Trenton says:

    You have to lie to people to protect your self 99 percent of people are evil. Nobody cares about any one but there self.

  • Don Christian says:

    Life is one BIG BULLSHIT SHOW!!
    no one tells the fucking truth! Everybody lies!

    life is like a card game, no one wants to show you thier hand until tney need to crush you, ever ask some one a question and you notice they pause for a second to think of what they want to say?…

    it’s because they are thinking, is it a good idea to give up thier hand now?

    LOL
    it’s funny try it, you will notice that, everythig is like one big fucking card game, specially when you do business,

    ever wonnder why the fucker your talking to pauses briefly before he answers you?
    he/she is trying to figure out if the the honest answer is a good idea,
    every one is full of shit, remember that everybody lies.

    these fuckers arn’t thinking about your question to give you the most honest answer, NO!
    They are thinking weather or not the truth is in thier best interest.
    Believe it!!!
    And that is so true when it comes to wealthy business, and politicians
    especially politicians, politicians, are the lowest scumb pecies of shit you could ever run into, and hey if your marired to one, you can be sure that fucker has cheated on you one time or another or still is, that is what they do best, dishonesty!! They got a masters degree in Dishonesty! they probably scored a 3.99 grade avarage in that subject.. that’s why people love texting and chatting because they can take the time to come up with their best lies & BS to hand out to you, this is where they craft there best all time work of art Bull Shit! lol

  • Mr_Cryptic says:

    Is anyone still reading this thing? I found it by random accident.

  • Wendy Hartmann says:

    yeah and you’re still full of shit and i’m not one of them

  • blindanddumb says:

    if your feeling bad about it go read bukowski

  • ZFORCE814 says:

    Spot on… My bag always had a lighter, needle and thread, a knife, first aid kit, wipes, battery operated phone charger, hand sanitizer, and 6 breakfast bars… And my desk always had candies, and I would bring donuts or Greek homemade cookies often… Yes… Being responsible, being respectful, being dressed clean and being groomed, and knowing when to hold your tongue at the work place goes a long way… This way, when you have something to say at a critical point more people will pay attention…

  • Caleb Donley says:

    I just don’t give a shit.

  • Charlie says:

    I have a manager that knows everyone and has a situation or story for everything. He starts his sentence with “my buddy” or “I know this guy”. Doesn’t matter what it is about….I can see through his bullshit. I know others can too. How do you handle this when it’s your manager??? I think he has shit his way to his position too because he knows nothing.

  • Neil says:

    Just be an asshole to everyone in general. People love assholes especially women. Since we live in a world where most people are insensitive, people will see it as a strength.

  • DeweyRiley says:

    You are full of shit sir.

  • Janet Witt says:

    Why should you be nice. When no one else is.I mean it starts feeling like being abused after awhile.Once people know your nice. They start taking advantage of it.Because they are all assholes.I just decided to give up and hate them.I won’t even hold a door for anyone anymore.I just let it close in their face.It’s a lot more satisfying.

  • Janet Witt says:

    Must be a narcissist or psychopath. Ha ha ha what a jerk.I hope you stalk me I have a few anger issues that need to be satisfied.

    • Camil Gagnon says:

      Sorry, but saying that is the kind of thing Jerks say too, not speaking about your anger issues. Everybody has problems, and those who don’t give a shit often gave one too many earlier in their lives.

    • Kenny Witzenman says:

      So because she doesn’t wanna get coffee she’s a phychopath. LOL look in the mirror Janet.

  • The Serious Truth says:

    Especially the women of today.

  • Tval says:

    I would add, “Be aware of the words coming out of your mouth.” Specifically, 1) Don’t tell me something one week and then later say, “I never said that; why would I say that?” 2) Don’t constantly shift priorities. If something needs to get done soon, wait until it’s done before moving something else to the top if the list. 3) Be aware of how your words affect people, rather than just spewing whatever you feel like saying and blaming the recipient for getting offended – if you even remember saying it. Conversely, 4) don’t tell me I said things I didn’t say. I realize this appears to violate the main rule, but one advantage of not saying much is being aware of the things I do say.

  • Nᴉʞlɐs Dä̶n̶n̶í̶ H4ns3n says:

    Don’t do drugs, animal-rape, inbred, yadda yadda = Good people..

    I’m seriously disgusted how many people get stoned and drunk and bone their dogs while fucking more than their share of men and still get kids.. it’s utterly insane and disgusting.. kill yeselves.. seriously.. no one ever needed/wanted ye here.. so why live? End of discussion (.)

  • virgin says:

    I wake up shit faced everyday but I don’t give a damn

  • Kurtis says:

    When people ask me to go out with them I know it’s only because they want something from you those people are free loaders I give them time but not there mouth is full of shit. I deal with it daily with my wife.

  • Liz Romero says:

    Hello.
    So, my husband and I fight a lot. Why? I do a lot of stupid shit. He is 41 and I’m 21. I talk ALOT of nonsense and never focus on any one thing. He tells me a lot that “I’m full Of shit.” and he’s right. I am selfish and greedy. I only think about myself. I’m suppose to know when to do things I just don’t know when to do. Now, my question is: how do I NOT be full of shit in my relationship? I’ve never been apart of a legitimate relationship before. I never really had to “adult” and make decisions for myself and when I did I normally got myself in trouble. He said I need to just use self control and fix myself. I need to stop having such a slick mouth. So, do you have any ideas on, maybe, exercises or something I can do to not be full of shit and to “fix myself”?

  • The Best Answer says:

    It is the women of today that are full of shit altogether now.

    • Lex - says:

      The personality and flakiness therein is genderless, therefore both men and women can be truthful or full of shit. Societal norms and assigned gender roles from within a society in and of itself was written by people that were and still are full of shit. The full articulation of one’s own personality, inherent character flaws and strengths are laid bare in today’s woman, as well as men.

      Hint, the wide stroke of the brush, is an indication that you apply it to all women without actually knowing “all women”, thus it’s easy to see, you’re full of shit, too. One can never actually “know” all the women in the world, that’s an impossibility. It sounds like your ego was bashed earlier by women or made to feel inferior. If you’ve got issues with women and how they’ve done you wrong, you need to change how you operate around them because if you don’t, the same thing will happen but with a different woman. You are responsible for your own happiness, you are responsible for your own actions and you are responsible as to how you perceive a situation. If you don’t take these resposibilities for yourself, you’ll continue the same course throughout your life, continue to have the exact same issues. I hear this exact phrase about women, “It is the women of today that are full of shit altogether now.” a lot in regards to feminism via some people from within the Mens Rights Activitists (MRAs for short). Sure, both groups have some truths but these camps also have plenty of fallacies but don’t I say everyone is full of shit, only some people are.

      • Daren says:

        You know, ever since I was little I was taught that respect and manners were a very big thing. The day I turned 18 and had my first job (McDonald’s), guess how many times I was treated with any respect or saw manners? None. Not only from my co-workers, but the people we served as well! Nowadays everybody focuses on two things; Money and themselves. All we see is competition instead of allies or co-workers or friendship or ANYTHING. Just competition. Even in school it’s pounded in our heads that money and control are the important things in life. Guess what? It’s not. The world we live in now is full of pieces of shit. Male and female. I would like to say there are somewhere around .015% of the world shows heart and manners and all the stuff we were taught originally. But those people dwindle the kind folk even more. How, you say? By USING THEM FOR THEIR OWN PERSONAL GAIN. All people do now is use others. And it sickens me. To those .015% of nice people out there who do everything they can to be polite and kind and show manners and all that nice wonderful stuff. Thank you. You are appreciated. And once more, thank you. To the other percentage of shitheads in the world, take a lesson with the nice people. Smh.

        • Lila Johnson says:

          Thank you for appreciating the very small percentage of nice people out there. Wish there was a park or something for a mini-community like ours. It is kind of ridiculous to serve rude people who we have to co-exist with ironically. And yes, I’ve encountered people who are in it for themselves and what’s good for them, once that source runs out, they are out too. I still have that tiny bit of hope left, but it can only run for so long. The shitheads of the world need a nice slap in the face, or an experience to make them ponder over the treatment they’ve given to other people, we are all human beings and we all should be treated with some respect at least! I am sorry you’ve had to serve idiots especially at a young age, at this point I wish the really shitty people out there would get sent to a different planet or island…. why do we have to deal with them lol.

      • The Best Answer says:

        Just look how the women of today have really changed for the worst of all compared to the women in the old days which most of them were very much the complete opposite of what they’re today which is real sad. And most women back then were raised very well by good parents that brought them up right which today most women just don’t have any respect for us good men at all and will Curse at us for just saying good morning or hello to them just to start a conversation going. A very different unfortunate time that we live in today which is a very good reason why many of us men are still single today with the kind of pathetic loser women that we have out there now which speaks for itself right there.

        • Lila Johnson says:

          Yeah, what can we do? All we can do is just be patient and do whatever we can to help change the world by working on ourselves and letting the people who want to rot, be. I’ve also said hello to people just as a greeting with no response as if I was a walking zombie or barely non-existent. That’s what it felt like. What you do is you pretty much learn that you can’t trust anyone these days, especially with the crap that’s going on these days. I almost forgot the world was a shitty place, it’s a shitty reminder I’ll give you that. And you go out and find the best for you, and everyone else should do that. The pests and crazy people, ain’t nobody got time for them, we have to live our lives, they can do what they do, and we take it with a grain of salt and leave/run “whatever” and go on from there. There are people that I know who give amazing treatment and in return, will receive some rash or foul treatment from others. Only agree to the best, or even decent. Stay away from the crazy people, nobody has time for that shit. End of story.

      • Nᴉʞlɐs Dä̶n̶n̶í̶ H4ns3n says:

        But there’s still no such thing as musculinism though.. it’s not even a word, so should “feminism” be aswell, even if it was.. we wouldn’t
        shove it nearly as much.. humanity is fucked up.. we destroyed natural selection, and inherited our ancesters freedom but abused it.. science truly just gonna be another religion.. the hell if I should care about people anymore, but I’d probably still do, and till the day it’s killing me, unfortunately.. great genes straight down the drain..

  • Lex - says:

    #3 No pun intended but can be construed as a, “full of shit” move, too. Providing people something to nibble on or to use your own money and resources in order to be seen as not full of shit at the office has just the opposite effect, some people will see this as being shallow and trying to buy them out / off. One shouldn’t have to provide anything to the company staff with their own money. You’re not paying to work there, you’re being paid to work there. Besides, everyone knows by now there is no such thing as a free lunch, breakfast or snack, there is always something attached to it. People should avoid being a fucking doormat to a cheap company.

    Someone who looks out for, “numero uno” isn’t necessarily full of shit, some people are very obvious about it, don’t mince words and tell no lies. As irritating as those people are, they’re not full of sh*t but rather, assholes.

    Being nice, let alone not full of shit, are very different from each other and aren’t mutually inclusive. I’ve encountered a lot of people that are full of shit that have what is known as the genuine smile. Ones that are helpful, or at the very least appears to be helpful at the time (when they’re really looking for a returned favor or social contract with you).

  • S.A.DisMyExcuse says:

    I love this. As a female who seeks truth realizing I live in a world of lies. Not trying to sound like the most honest person in the world. I’ve actually been called a liar quite a bit. But the difference between me and some people I went to the source to figure out why I lied and how to stop it. I’m not some great person. I’ve hurt and lied to a lot of people. I’m considered flakey because I’ve pulled the let’s have breakfast tomorrow and never gave them a call afterwards. I’ve ran away from nice guys and chased the ones I thought I could fix. I lost a ton of friends. My parents think I hate them. Everyone who knows me personally looks down on me… All because of who I am… All I know is I want to change this. People think I’m dumb but I don’t want to be. People think I’m a selfish lying flake but I DON’T WANT TO BE… I want to change. And I am so glad I found this. I was tired of running in circles trying to figure out why everyone hated me. I never thought I just needed to treat people better. Do the things you have listed. Love people instead of being scared of them because you know how shitty they can be… I’m only 21 so I know I have plenty of time to fix myself. So thank you for making this post. Hopefully it will help me grow

Top