An abnormal and
annoying personal trait that is unstoppable, automatic, and perceived by the individual as perfectly normal. We all have them and they are made specifically to anger others. These can be discussed by others by names, for example, an Arthur-ism. a Janet-ism, etc. Those who know these people
will automatically KNOW what is being discussed. But the individual
will remain utterly clueless. Isms are beloved by the holder, who clings to his/her ism with defensiveness and righteousness.
Mike spends a lot of time shopping for milk. First he looks at the dates. After about 5 minutes he locates a good one, pulls it off the shelf and feels the
bottom of the carton. Reject. He puts it back and repeats the scenario. His wife knows this is going to take a long time and that it is just an ism of Mike'
s, so she goes to the ice cream section and enjoys until he shows up with one carton. This may take up to 15 minutes.
Joan puts lotion on her feet after every bath or shower. But she always makes sure the lotion does not get on her toes. Her
friends watch her speechlessly but accept this as her ism. One time Lucy asked
Joan why she did this, but
Joan just asked, "What?" Lucy rolled her eyes at everyione in the room and all of their eyes deepened in acknowledgement.