We often feel “cheeky and angry” when others inconvenience us, assuming they are acting out of personal malice. Hanlon’s Razor suggests a simpler, more empathetic view: “Never attribute to malice that which can be adequately explained by neglect or incompetence”.
Most people are simply oblivious or thoughtless, not “out to get you”. If someone cuts you off in traffic or takes the last box of cereal, they might just be distracted or “absent-minded”. Using this model removes your “offended ego” from social interactions, reducing unnecessary anxiety and rage. By giving people the benefit of the doubt, you massively improve your relationships and save your mental energy for things that actually matter.