Don't understand people.?

Question

I'm the kind of person that likes to get to know everyone. Learn about their cultures, what they are like.

But, I was told from some people that I am trying to be everyone's friend to feed my need for constant approval.

I'm not searching for approval or acceptance.

What do I say to make people understand that?

Answer 1

You cannot teach a pig to sing, it only frustrates you and annoys the pig. Don't bother trying to "educate" or "enlighten" anyone who already has their mind made up. Who cares if they're wrong? You know what the truth is. If they're trying to get you to change, tell them to leave you alone.

Answer 2

You should try talking to people and getting to know them more on a one - on - one basis. Instead of a group setting. This will deter other from feeling as you are trying to draw the attention to you only and get approval from others when all your trying to do is learn about something new and how someone else lives.
I am much like yourself but have never been accused of needing attention, trying too hard, or trying to get constant approval.
You can get the information you need, form the friendships you want and gain knowledge on different cultures and things in a not so public way.
Mostly what I do is just chill and watch what goes on around me, then if i see something I will ask what it is, why it is custom to do that and so forth but still in private without monopolizing the conversation.

Answer 3

You know yourself better than anyone so don't worry about their approval of that. If someone says you're filling a need for constant approval just tell them that if they truly knew you, they would know that you're not like that. You simply enjoy learning about people. I find that an awesome quality. A lot of people just like to talk about themselves and not listen to what other people have to say. It actually shows that you are unselfish and you take the time to get to know them. And by the way, there is nothing wrong with trying to be everyone's friend.

Answer 4

If you feel that you have a need to make people understand that you don't need their approval or acceptance, then maybe you're guilty as charged. What I'm saying is that their opinion of your motives should be of no interest to you UNLESS you feel a craving for approval and acceptance.

Genuine multiculturalists just let our critics continue to embarrass themselves by attributing the wrong motives to our interest in other cultures.

Keep safe.

Answer 5

People might say that you are a sadjfhadks licker (excuse me the word) - but dont you care. The fact that you want to explore cultures and get to know people proves that you are indeed an open minded person (No claims for this will be entertained :D) - but there are people who wud take it otherwise, thinking that you want to be good in everybody;s books, well, which appears obvious, but might not be the fact.
You go ahead, be yourself, respect every culture and human being, those who dont, you know what and who they are.

Cheers to you!!

Answer 6

that someone that told you that was probably just hateing the fact that some many people likje you. you are a people person and that is a good quality in a person you dont need to make anyone understand you you are who you are we have to report to one person only he can cast judgement tell them that God dont like ugly so they can stop that.
obviously they are watching what you are doing a little bit too much they bneed to be aware of there actions and maybe follow thier own advice

Answer 7

As long as you're not being too intrusive, don't worry about what others say. But if you need some kind of rebuttal, then say something like, "This world can always use more friendly folk - maybe you should try it."

Answer 8

why must you say anything? if others don't get it that's their problem. i don't see how asking someone about their culture and such makes you needy of acceptance anyway. do your own thing and keep asking questions. if more people would ask, there wouldn't be so much ignorance in the world. think of what THAT would be like.

Answer 9

I am the same way!! Just say that you want to learn more about them or their cultures. If people insult you like that just ignore them and be who you want to be!!

Answer 10

Say you are making yourself a well rounded person. I have been accused of this, too. Except, having to do with hobbies (horses, guitar, etc). I didn't do it for THEM... I did it for ME. And with all the hobbies I have gained over the years, I never have a bored moment!