Muthoni Mukiri: The reason people take you for granted

Counsellor and mindset coach Muthoni Mukiri has shared insight into why some people are often taken for granted, whether in relationships, at work, or in daily life.

In an Instagram post on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Mukiri explained that lowering your standards, whether for clients, colleagues, or personal relationships, can unintentionally invite disrespect. She said:

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“You see, the people that you lower your standards for are the ones that take you for granted the most,” She said.

She gave examples from both professional and personal contexts. Even clients who receive the biggest discounts, she noted, can be the most demanding.

“Even the customers, the clients that you give the biggest discounts, those are the ones that write the longest emails, they’re demanding to see the manager, they’re causing drama at the business,” Mukiri stated.

Personal relationship

Mukiri emphasised that this pattern is not limited to work. In personal relationships, lowering boundaries can lead to similar dynamics. People tend to meet you at the level you allow rather than the level you deserve.

“Whether it’s in terms of a relationship or whether you’re looking for a job, just know they will treat you on that level where they’re at because you’re the one who’s gone down to that level,” she added.

She advised paying attention to subtle behaviours that reveal how much respect someone truly has for you. Mukiri stressed that consistent disregard, overstepping boundaries, or taking advantage of generosity are red flags that should not be ignored.

By being mindful of boundaries and refusing to lower standards unnecessarily, Mukiri explained that individuals can avoid being taken advantage of and encourage respect in all areas of life.

“The people you lower your standards for are the people who will take you for granted the most,” she explained.