How to Deal with a Manipulator

More on how to deal with a Manipulator

Do you ever feeling like someone else is trying to control you? It feels subtle but you momentarily feel under their grip? Watch out, you are probably on the radar screen of a manupulator. How do you loosen their hold on you? Heed these steps:

1. Awareness is key. When you feel someone is trying to back you into a corner, even if they are saying they're not, trust your gut. You know that they are. Fess up to what's really happening.

2. Counter what they say. They may try to tell you all sorts of reasons why you need to do something, but ask yourself: do you really need to do it? Whatever they are trying to "sell" you, don't fall for the bait.

3. Catch them in the act. When they are saying one thing but doing another, let it be known. Just call them out on it. "So you are saying....., but here's what you are doing...." (fill in the blanks).

4. When in doubt, check it out. If you are confused by what is going on, call a friend, give them the scoop, and get their feedback.

5. Run for the hills. You don't want to have to deal with a person who manipulates much of the time, those people are toxic. If you can, have as little to do with them as possible.