To say that dealing with toxic people can be frustrating, infuriating, and painful is an understatement. In this article, I’ll provide you with the tools to navigate these challenging relationships in a powerful way, maintaining your dignity, integrity, self-respect, and self-esteem. These are 13 clever ways to deal with toxic people like the empowered badass you know you can be. Let’s get started!
So, let’s dive into 13 clever ways to deal with toxic people like the empowered badass you are:
1. Exercise Wise Discernment
The first step to effectively dealing with toxic people is to develop and practice wise discernment. This means identifying and understanding who and what you’re dealing with. Empaths, especially untreated codependent empaths, often assume others share their good intentions and kindness. Unfortunately, this is not always true.
The hard truth is that some people are inherently malevolent and destructive. They aim to harm, undermine, sabotage, or destroy anything good in your life. Spotting such individuals requires you to remove the rose-colored glasses, recognize their intentions, and tell yourself the truth about what you see, hear, and feel—no matter how uncomfortable it might be.
2. Relinquish the Fantasy That Toxic People Will Change
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!
Let go of the hope that toxic individuals will change. They don’t—not in any real or lasting way. Stop trying to force, coerce, or entice them to change, as this only drains your energy and feeds their toxic behavior.
Instead, ground yourself in reality. Observe their actions, not their empty promises or future-faking, and accept who they are based on your experiences with them. Toxic people show you their true selves repeatedly; believe them the first time.
3. Value and Protect Your Emotional Well-Being
Operating from a place of strength starts with valuing and protecting your emotional well-being. Set healthy boundaries—not just with toxic people, but with anyone who drains or depletes you. Nurture yourself with proper nutrition, rest, and self-care.
Remember, being compassionate and helpful is admirable, but never at your own expense.
4. Practice Emotional Insulation
This technique involves guarding yourself against toxic projections, avoiding taking their opinions personally, and managing your triggers with grace. Emotional insulation helps you stop empathizing with toxic individuals who lack the capacity to reciprocate. Instead, save your empathy for those who treat you with respect and kindness.
5. Withdraw from Conflict Using the Gray Rock Method
The gray rock method helps you remain indifferent and unresponsive to toxic behavior. By not reacting to provocations, you deny them the emotional response they seek. Be prepared for an initial escalation of their antics, but stay calm, consistent, and detached.
6. Be Aware of Narcissistic Baiting
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!
When toxic individuals can’t provoke you, they might escalate their behavior to bait you into reacting. Stay indifferent and rise above their manipulations. By maintaining composure, you deny them the satisfaction of blaming or vilifying you.
7. Use the “WIN” Technique
The WIN (When you/I feel/I need) technique is an effective boundary-setting method. For instance: “When you speak to me that way, I feel disrespected. I need you to stop.”
If they don’t take you seriously, repeat it. On the third attempt, add a consequence—but only if you’re prepared to enforce it.
8. Master Detachment and Non-Reactivity
Heal yourself to avoid being easily triggered. When you’re emotionally resilient, it’s easier to stay detached and indifferent, denying toxic people the response they crave. Silence can be powerful—no communication is still communication.
9. Go Low-Doses or No-Doses
Control your exposure to toxic people. Reduce the time you spend with them or limit contact altogether. Protect yourself by creating physical and emotional distance.
10. Seek a Trusted Confidant
Find someone safe to confide in—a therapist, coach, or trusted friend. They should be empathetic, trustworthy, and capable of holding space for you without judgment. Surround yourself with supportive people who inspire and uplift you.
11. Remember: It’s Not Your Stuff
Toxic people project their inner issues onto others. Their actions and attitudes reflect their shortcomings, not yours. Avoid internalizing their behavior and recognize it as a reflection of who they are.
12. Embrace the Three C’s
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!
Remember: You didn’t cause it, you can’t control it, and you can’t cure it. Release the urge to fix them or their relationship with you. Let them face the consequences of their actions.
13. Know When to Walk Away
Sometimes, the best decision is to leave. Grieve the loss of what was or what could have been, but prioritize your well-being. Walking away isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a choice to protect yourself and focus on what truly matters.
If you’re ready to take the next step in personal growth, my Ascension Class is now open for enrollment. This program is for those ready to transform their lives, heal limiting beliefs, and design their dream future. Click the link in the description below to apply for a free consultation with me or a team member.
Remember, you are your greatest advocate. Choose to invest in yourself and live the life you deserve!
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!