We’ve all met that one employee who seems to find offense in literally everything—from the way someone chews their lunch to the font on an email. As much as HR loves to keep the peace, sometimes we just want to say a few things… but can’t (because, you know, professionalism).

Here’s what’s really on our minds:

1. “Not Everything Is About You—Really.”

We promise, Jim’s bad joke wasn’t a personal attack, and no, Susan’s eye roll probably wasn’t directed at you. Sometimes people just have bad days—or terrible senses of humor. Or sometimes something really is harmless or funny or worthwhile and you're just looking for the offense in everything.

2. “Intent Matters. Yes, Even When It’s Awkward.”

Sure, Brenda’s comment about ‘those people’ sounded shady, but maybe she meant something else (or maybe she didn’t and just needs a sensitivity refresher). Either way, jumping to conclusions isn’t always the answer.

3. “You Don’t Need to File a Complaint Over Every Micro-Aggression… Real or Imagined.”

If we had a dollar for every time someone got offended over what they thought was offensive but was really quite harmless, we’d be on a beach sipping margaritas. Sometimes it’s okay to just breathe, shrug, and move on.

4. “Context Is Your Friend.”

A sarcastic “great job” might sting, but maybe it’s just Joe’s way of motivating (or maybe he needs a motivational seminar himself). Asking for clarity beats plotting office revenge.

5. “Can We Talk Like Grown-Ups?”

If something bugs you, don’t stew in silence or launch a passive-aggressive email chain. Come chat. We promise it’s way less stressful than turning every conversation into a drama episode.

At the end of the day, HR wants a workplace where everyone feels respected—but also where not every snarky comment is treated like a Shakespearean tragedy. Because, hey, we're a lot busier than you think we are.