Do you have a hypocrite in your life, someone who conveniently forgets their own faults while happily pointing out yours?
Hypocrites have one set of standards for themselves and different standards for you. A high school girl, Nelly, continually badmouthed other people, stirring up drama within her class. If anyone else talked badly about someone, Nelly told them off and said it was wrong to talk about people. The weird thing was she couldn’t see that she was the worst offender.
These snappy comebacks will let the hypocrite in your life know that you are on to them and are not interested in putting up with their double standard.
WANT TO BE ABLE TO SPEAK UP FOR YOURSELF?
Our FREE Starter Guide will show you the 3 simple steps you can take right now to stand up for yourself so that you can feel confident. It’s a game changer–get it free for a limited time!
Top ten comebacks for a hypocrite
- I think it’s funny that the people that treat you badly get offended when you do the same to them.
- If I treated you, the way you treated me, you would be furious.
- It’s always the one with the dirty hands pointing the finger.
- Actions prove who someone is, words just prove who they want to be.
- No, of course I don’t think you are a total hypocrite for preaching about the same stuff you are guilty of doing…
- It’s easier to see the wrong in other people’s lives, than in your own life. Don’t judge.
- You are conveniently forgetting your own faults and then taking pleasure in pointing out mine!
- People in glass houses shouldn’t be throwing stones!
- You need to get off your high horse and look at yourself first!
- People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.
Definition of a hypocrite
A hypocrite is someone who claims to believe in something but behaves in a very opposite way.
Basically, these people may criticize someone for a certain behavior that they themselves partake in. Hence, the word “hypocrite,” a term that originated from the Greek word “hypokrites” which means “a stage player” or an “actor.”
Hypocrisy preys everywhere. It’s in politics, entertainment, and even in your religion and personal relationships. This practice of false virtue can lead to disrespect and distrust of others.
Considering its destructive effects, it’s critical to be critical with our values and beliefs, making sure our actions are aligned with them.
How to deal with a hypocrite
Handling a hypocritical person can be infuriating. They just know which buttons to push.
Here are some helpful pieces of advice when dealing with a hypocrite.
1. Be aware
The behavior of a hypocrite can inflict real emotional harm. So, you have to be mindful of these people. Observe if they actually practice what they preach.
2. Don’t engage
Don’t argue with a hypocrite, because they’re selectively irrational. They basically think they’re always right.
If you choose to engage with them, they will be more defensive. So, don’t waste time and focus on your values and behavior instead.
3. Lead by example
Walk the talk. Show them what it means to live up to good values and beliefs, things that they claim to hold.
If you can consistently do what you advise others to do, they will pay attention and maybe, follow suit.
4. Communicate
Yes, we did say to never engage with a hypocrite. But if that two-faced is already messing with your life and others, staying quiet will do no one good.
Talk about the situation and approach it in a non-confrontational and non-judgmental way. Focus on their behavior that’s been affecting everyone around them.
5. Set boundaries with a hypocrite
If you can’t deal with the hypocrite, no more, you should protect your personal space. You can choose to limit your interactions with them, or never engage with them at all.
The truth is, nobody wants to be told what to do, especially the hypocrites. Like we said, they’re practically deaf and blind on certain matters.
Rather than going crazy about what they say and don’t do, you should thrive to lift your own values and well-being.
If your relationship with a hypocrite gets out of hand, distance yourself altogether.
Be prepared next time you have to deal with a hypocrite
If you have to deal with someone who is a hypocrite and gives you a hard time, our bundle Snappy Comebacks any Situation can help you out. Be prepared for difficult people with clever responses on your phone or device any time or anywhere.
WANT TO BE ABLE TO SPEAK UP FOR YOURSELF?
Our FREE Starter Guide will show you the 3 simple steps you can take right now to stand up for yourself so that you can feel confident. It’s a game changer–get it free for a limited time!
More top ten comeback lists you might like
Famous people who have been called hypocrites
Tons of famous people have been labeled as the so-called “hypocrites.”
They’ll all try to deny it, but here is the unfortunate crowd who made this list anyway.
1. Al Gore
American politician Al Gore has been charged with being a climate hypocrite. This attack was in lieu of his claims of conserving the environment.
In a classic “I-don’t-practice-what-I-preach scenario, the former Vice-President of the US. has high carbon footprints and green lighting fossil fuel investments.
2. Lance Armstrong
Hypocrisy accusations have been riding heavily on Lance Armstrong. The former professional cyclist was charged with being a drug cheat. While he denied doping in sports for years, the Texan finally admitted it in 2013.
3. Justin Timberlake
Over the span of his long career, Justin Timberlake has been dodging bullets of hypocrisy — from appropriating black culture to feigning support for his ex-girlfriend Britney Spears.
4. Bill Clinton
For someone who used to sing in a church choir and preach on sexual misconduct, Bill Clinton has had damaging extramarital affairs.
Though the former American President did confess to his wrongdoings, he surely did not take responsibility for his actions.
5. Gwyneth Paltrow
Gwyneth Paltrow is a health and wellness enthusiast. At least, that’s what she claims to be. Despite being a non-medical professional, the American actress promotes dangerous health products and treatments, not to mention a lot of her recommendations are extremely expensive.
The truth is, no one on this planet is capable of adhering to their beliefs at all times. Life makes it hard to do it anyway. The point is the hypocrites are not actually bad people. They are complicated and changeable, but not outright mean.
The best way to deal with hypocritical people is to meet them with compassion and kindness.
The role of counselling and self-care
I Should Have Said Media may earn a commission after clicking links on this page at no additional cost to you. Learn more.
When you are dealing with someone who forgets their own faults while happily pointing out yours and you find it stressful, consider getting support from a professional. Talking to a counselor is a great way to work through a challenging situation, and help you find some strategies to work through the person’s behaviour.
Better Help is a great resource where you can talk to a counselor from the comfort of your own home.
Taking care of your own needs isn’t selfish, and you will feel better in the long run.
One Response
Oh.. so what you are saying is you don’t like me treating you the way you treat me. Isn’t that interesting.