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Letters From Listeners

How I Deal with a Toxic Person
11/14/2014


Hi. 

We have a relative, who is part of our large extended family. I have known for years she is toxic, but she is as smooth as butter. I warned my sisters about her, but recently she caused a huge problem with one of my sisters. I am untouched because for years I have been polite, and never tell her anything she could ever use against me or my family. That is the key. Be polite, Talk about the weather, or something in common that cannot come back to bite you. Never go into business, do any kind of money deals, or let the other person do things for you that they could hold over your head. In other words, keep independent and polite and pleasant. Period. Never, never, take the other person into your confidence unless you want big trouble. It really bugs them when they cannot control your life and they will try every way to smile and be "helpful" but don't fall for it. Be careful of what you say to their close family, too, as they may have them completely hoodwinked, too. 

Thanks for all you do. 

Sharon
Tags: Attitude, Behavior, Personal Responsibility, Relatives
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