What to do about TOXIC people in your life

A key reason why so many individuals are toxic is because, put simply, they have no boundaries.

They feel they have nothing to lose by making your life as miserable as they possibly can -- often because their lives are that way.

They have little regard for your feelings, perspectives, and opinions, as they deem theirs far superior. If you object to their assertions, prepare to be scorned. Toxic people loathe dissent.

They are often narcissists masquerading as good, humble folks -- that is, until their chameleon tendencies come to light and you realize they have no one's best interests at heart but their own.

It's no wonder so many of these mercurial individuals find themselves in top positions in the corporate world. They schmooze their way to the top, and once there, dispense misery upon unsuspecting worker bees, hastening those employees' eventual resignations.

Their toxic tendencies extend to their personal relationships as well. Three or more marriages are typical. They cycle through friends as if they were used articles of clothing. They run roughshod over those who don't stand up for themselves -- and try every trick in the book to disarm people who show any signs of resistance. Damned if you do, damned if you don't.

So what is one to do when forced to contend with such a terrible human being -- one who will stop at nothing to erode your self-esteem and happiness?

For starters, if you can find a way to nix them from your life entirely, that would be the superior option.

But I realize that isn't always feasible (e.g., a boss or in-law). If, after making it clear you will not let them disrespect you, their behavior persists, it's time to get someone else involved -- whether it be human resources or your partner.

If that bears no fruit, you might need to consider whether pulling the plug on the job or relationship is the only realistic way to regain a semblance of peace in your life.

As I've said so many times before, life is too short to have to dread another person encroaching on your space and cutting you down all the time.

Refuse to be abused!

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