Who hasn’t stuck their foot in their mouth at some point? Sometimes, without even realizing it, our actions or words can inadvertently offend others. 

Maybe it’s a misplaced joke, a misunderstood comment, or simply not recognizing someone else’s feelings… We’ve all had that occasional slip-up. 

The cues that signal you’ve crossed a line can be quite subtle, so knowing how to spot them can help foster healthier, more respectful relationships. 

Here are seven signs to look for:

1) Changes in body language

The first sign that you might be offending someone can be seen in their body language. 

Ggg.

A person’s body language can tell you a lot about their comfort level. In fact, it often speaks louder than their words. 

So take a look at their non-verbal cues: Is their posture open, or are they crossing their arms? Are they leaning in, or are they pulling away? Are they suddenly avoiding eye contact? 

For instance, you’re sharing a joke, and you notice your friend’s smile doesn’t quite reach their eyes, and they seem to have recoiled a bit. This could be a sign that your joke didn’t sit well with them.

If you notice any sudden changes in body language, it’s a good idea to reassess what you’ve just said or done and consider if it may have been offensive.

2) Change in tone or mood

Just like body language, tone and mood are also non-verbal cues that can indicate how someone really feels.