We all know them and possibly interact with them daily. These are the people who seem to drain every fiber of our being when we are around them. These are the people who we usually walk away from feeling either very defensive or totally exhausted. They ignite some type of negative emotion or reaction out of us. Sometimes, we just can’t hide from those who seem to make life miserable. It may be a coworker, a friend, a relative, or a boss. When we can’t avoid difficult people, we must learn how to deal with them in a way that does not impact our own mental/emotional health. Dr. Marilyn Manning has identified the following six types of difficult people:
1. The Bully – This person is hostile, abusive, and intimidating. They always have to be right and will charge at you if you challenge them.
2. The Ego-Centered Princess/Prince – This person believes they are the “expert.” They want to feel superior and enjoy being the center of attention and feeling “special.”
3. The Passive-Aggressive – This person often use sarcasm and insults disguised as jokes. They are never direct with their criticism.
4. The Baby – These people see everything negatively and whine, complain, and constantly act defeated. They may even play “the victim” from time to time.
5. The Downer – This person sees the downside of every issue. They will dismiss every solution and often has difficulty trusting others.
6. The People Pleaser – This person may be easy to like, but they have trouble setting and maintaining boundaries. They have a difficult time saying “NO” and may over commit themselves.
So how do we deal with these difficult personalities when we see them?
1. Do NOT try to change them. We have a tendency to want to change difficult people. It likely will not work. People have to want to change and have to find the motivation to change on their own. When we try to change others, they actually become more defensive and resistant to change. In essence, you will make it worse.
2. Try understanding them. Hear them out and try to find some commonalities that can help you find a happy medium.
3. Do not let them become toxic in your life. Remain assertive, and set healthy boundaries with them. Some difficult people can be mean or hurtful. This can be harmful for your emotional/mental health. If a difficult person in your life becomes toxic for you, keep your distance, create a buffer by surrounding yourself with good/healthy friends, and if you have to see them, limit it.
4.Pray for them. A little prayer for another person never hurts.
Thanks for reading! Please leave comments below.
~ Ashley ~
Comments