Don't let people put you down

Whether it's that they're having a bad day, are mad at you because you made an innocent mistake, or they're just a difficult person by nature, no one has the right to put you down.

If their meltdown is followed by an apology you deem to be sincere, life moves on.

But if you find that these outbursts occur quite frequently, or if the person has a knack for pinning the blame on you when something goes wrong, it's important you stand up for yourself.

Otherwise, they'll think they have permission to treat you with disrespect.

Standing up for oneself doesn't mean you have to disparage the individual, firing off expletives, throwing things at them, and essentially stooping to his or level.

You can be firm and civil at the same time. In fact, you would merely be admonishing on their petty behavior: They should watch their language and tone it down, or there will he consequences.

Such consequences may include reporting them to human resources (if in the workplace), seeking counseling, or terminating the relationship altogether.

Saying one is having an awful day may fly once or twice, but if the person repeatedly uses that excuse to justify their behavior, they're likely being insincere.

And tearing into you even after you have apologized for a mistake you've made is cruel, whether it's your boss or an acquaintance.

Look, we're always going to clash with other people -- there's no way around it.

But rather than resorting to bashing and finger pointing, people should strive to resolve conflicts like adults do -- diplomatically.

And if they refuse to do so, you should do whatever you can to escape that toxic situation. Find a better job. Pull the plug on the relationship. Walk away with dignity.

If you treat people with respect, it's only right that they do the same. No one is above anyone else, no matter their title, gender, or political persuasion.

Don't suffer in silence. No one has permission to invalidate your feelings.

Check out more great posts here: How to Understand People

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