Is it rude or inappropriate when a woman keeps telling me to smile more?

[Anonymous]

Whenever I run into her, she always smiles then tells me to smile more or makes a comment about me not smiling.

I know it is offensive when a man says that to a woman but not sure about the reverse.

[HollyK21]

Whether or not that line of questioning is offensive, in my opinion, would be subjective. But since you’ve taken offense to it, why not correct it? There’s nothing confrontational or rude about advocating for yourself, especially if you’re not being a complete jerk about how you do it. In her mind, a statement like that may be lighthearted and good natured, but she isn’t privy to what’s going on in your personal life and what could be the catalyst as to why you’re “not smiling more”. You could find your own way to address it that makes you feel better about doing so, but I believe setting boundaries when you’re uncomfortable is important, because she won’t know unless you either tell her or physically show you don’t like it, which I believe could cause equal or more friction than a conversation in itself.

[Nikki1989]

It is never offensive no matter who says it. You must be easily triggered.

[Anonymous]

she's flirting lol🙄

[dudeinohio]

I think so, if they do it all the time.