Daily Annoyances
Your sibling won’t stop tapping their pencil during dinner.
What is politely ask them to stop or try to ignore it. If it’s really bothering you, move seats or use a distraction (like focusing on your own eating?
Your best friend left you on "read."
What is don’t assume the worst—people get busy. Give them time and avoid overthinking. If it keeps happening, you can ask if something is wrong?
You forgot your homework at home.
What is stay calm and be honest with your teacher—ask if you can turn it in later or email a picture. Use it as a reminder to double-check before leaving home?
A friend stops talking to you with no explanation.
What is give them space but check in: “Hey, I noticed we haven’t talked much. Everything okay?” If they don’t respond, respect their choice and focus on other friendships?
A stranger keeps staring at you. What do you do?
What is stay calm and look away. If it makes you uncomfortable, move away or ask a friend to stick with you?
Someone took your seat in class even though it’s "your spot."
What is let it go if it’s not assigned seating, or calmly say, “Hey, I usually sit there—do you mind switching?” If they refuse, find another spot without making a scene?
Someone reposted your joke without giving credit.
What is If it bothers you, send them a message like, “Hey, I saw you posted my joke—mind tagging me?” If it’s not a big deal, let it go and remember imitation is flattery?
The teacher assigns a group project, and you get stuck with lazy partners.
What is try to take control of your part and communicate clearly. If no one contributes, let the teacher know early so they can step in?
Someone spreads a false rumor about you.
What is stay calm and don’t fuel the drama. If necessary, address it by saying, “That’s not true,” and move on. If it’s serious, ask a teacher or counselor for support?
You’re really frustrated during class. How do you handle it?
What is take deep breaths and focus on one thing at a time. If needed, ask for a break or write down your feelings to revisit later?
A teacher calls on you when you weren’t paying attention.
What is stay calm and try your best to answer. If you don’t know, you can say, “I’m sorry, I lost track—could you repeat the question?” Use it as a reminder to refocus?
A friend posts a group photo but cropped you out.
What is don’t jump to conclusions—maybe it wasn’t intentional. If it bothers you, casually say, “Dang, you cropped me out! What’s up with that?” and see their response?
A classmate mocks you for answering a question wrong.
What is stay confident and say, “At least I tried.” Mistakes are part of learning. If it continues, ignore them or let the teacher know about the behavior?
You overhear a classmate making fun of your appearance.
What is It’s hurtful, but try not to react emotionally. Say, “That’s not cool,” or ignore them. If it continues, talk to a teacher or trusted adult?
A friend tells you they’re struggling with their mental health. How do you respond?
What is Listen without judgment and say, “I’m here for you.” Encourage them to talk to a trusted adult or counselor, and check in on them later?
Your Wi-Fi cuts out during a show you’re watching.
What is take a deep breath and reset the router or try again later. Instead of getting frustrated, use the time for something else (a snack break, stretching, etc.)?
You see a vague post that seems to be about you.
What is Avoid reacting publicly or assuming it’s about you. If it really concerns you, talk to the person privately and ask if everything is okay?