My old coach used to say, “The world doesn’t owe you a thing. You have to earn it.”
He was right, of course.
In life, nothing is handed to us on a silver platter. We all have to work, strive, and sometimes even struggle to get where we want to be.
But have you noticed how some people behave as if they’re entitled to everything without lifting a finger? As if the world, for some reason, is indebted to them?
This mindset often manifests in subtle yet telling behaviors that affect relationships, career growth, and overall happiness.
From constant complaints to an inflated sense of entitlement, these traits can be both alienating and limiting.
Here are seven common behaviors displayed by people with a hidden sense of entitlement—and recognizing them is key to self-awareness and growth.
So, if you’re wondering “Am I one of those people?” or “How can I avoid turning into one?”, stick around.
1) They constantly play the victim
Here’s the first sign.
People who feel like the world owes them something often portray themselves as victims.
They believe that life is exceptionally hard for them and they’re always at the receiving end of unfair treatment.
These individuals rarely take responsibility for their actions. Any mishap or misfortune is seen as an external attack, not a consequence of their own doing.
This ‘victim mentality’ not only creates a negative aura around them, but it also prevents them from learning and growing from their experiences.
After all, how can you learn if you never believe you’re at fault?
2) They have a strong sense of entitlement
This one hits close to home for me.
I once had a friend, let’s call him Jake, who was the epitome of entitlement. To Jake, everything was about him and his needs.
For instance, whenever we went out to eat, he always expected us to let him choose the restaurant. And God forbid if anyone suggested a place he didn’t like – he’d throw a fit and make everyone uncomfortable.
The worst part?
Jake never realized how his behavior affected the rest of us. He was so wrapped up in his bubble of entitlement that it never occurred to him that others might have preferences too.
People who feel like the world owes them a favor often display this kind of behavior.
They believe they are inherently deserving of certain privileges or special treatment, often without any justification for it. And just like Jake, they might not even realize it’s a problem.
3) They are seldom grateful
Thankfulness is a virtue that often eludes those who feel the world owes them a favor.
Take it from me, gratitude is not just about saying “thank you.” It’s much more than that.
It’s about acknowledging the good in your life, appreciating the efforts others make for you, and understanding that you aren’t entitled to anything.
But for those who think the world owes them, this understanding is missing. They take things for granted. They fail to appreciate the small favors or kind gestures that people do for them.
And here’s the real sting.
This lack of gratitude can be damaging. It can make people around them feel unappreciated, undervalued, and less likely to extend their kindness in the future.
And not only that but also they miss the huge benefits that gratitude brings along, such as greater happiness, stronger relationships, and even improved mental and physical health.
Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can reduce stress, increase resilience, and foster a sense of well-being.
Without it, those who feel entitled not only push others away but also rob themselves of these powerful, life-enhancing benefits.
4) They are always criticizing others
Have you ever noticed how some people are quick to find fault in others but never turn the lens of criticism towards themselves?
Well, that’s another typical behavior of those who feel the world owes them.
They’re often overly critical, pointing out mistakes, and blaming others without a second thought. They see flaws everywhere except in the mirror.
But here’s the deal.
Nobody is perfect, and we all make mistakes. It’s part of being human.
But those who persistently criticize others, refusing to acknowledge their own shortcomings, create a barrier between themselves and potential friendships.
5) They struggle with empathy
Did you know that empathy is one of the most important traits for forming strong, healthy relationships?
It allows us to understand and share the feelings of others, to walk a mile in their shoes, so to speak. It’s a fundamental part of our human connection.
But people who feel like the world owes them something often struggle with this.
They find it hard to see things from another person’s perspective. Their focus is so much on their own needs and wants that they fail to consider those of others.
The sad part?
Without empathy, their relationships suffer.
They may find themselves frequently misunderstood or at odds with others, all because they couldn’t step outside their own viewpoint for a moment.
6) They rarely offer help
Life is a journey and along the way, we all need a helping hand.
But those who feel the world owes them tend to hold back when it comes to lending that hand to others. They’re less likely to offer help, and when they do, it often comes with strings attached.
Helping others isn’t about keeping score or expecting something in return. It’s about extending kindness, understanding, and compassion when someone else needs it.
It’s about recognizing that we’re all in this together. That we all stumble and fall, and sometimes, all we need is someone to lend us a hand to get back up.
7) They resist change
Change is inevitable. It’s the only constant in life.
But for those who feel the world owes them, change is often viewed as a threat, not an opportunity.
They cling to their comfort zones, resisting any alterations to their familiar routines or ways of thinking.
Instead of embracing change and adapting, they fight against it, expecting the world to adjust to their desires.
Unfortunately, this resistance can stunt their personal growth and damage their relationships.
Life doesn’t owe us a favor, but it does offer us countless opportunities to learn, grow, and become better versions of ourselves – if only we’re willing to embrace change.
