I see memes all the time about how when someone doesn’t like you, it doesn’t matter. But I have found that when I do some digging, I have cleared the air.

You don’t have to come out and ask, “Why don’t you like me?” You can say, “I sense some animosity/tension/you are avoiding me, is there anything you want to talk about?” One particular occasion a friend was dealing with health issues and wanted his space. Even though I had offered assistance in a difficult point in his life, he wanted to process it on his own. So I backed off. There was also a work situation where someone I got along with all of a sudden started giving me the cold shoulder. When I inquired as to the change of attitude they unleashed a tirade of anger. The previous week they needed someone to cover a shift for them. They were told I was asked but refused. Luckily I had the text conversation from the supervisor on my phone and I showed it to them. I had said I couldn’t stay late because I had plans after work. But unfortunately it was not relayed to them that way.

Will this work all the time? No it won’t. Not everyone is a reasonable person and not everyone is able to talk about their feelings. I also advise treading lightly if the other is in the circle of someone you are no longer in contact with. But if you choose to open that door know they will probably take anything you say back to the nest.