Toxic people create toxic relationships. These are exactly the sort of people you want to avoid.
Once you realise these 6 Signs of a toxic person it makes them easy to spot, and knowing how to deal with them makes them far easier for you to ignore.
Toxic people suck the joy out of life. They make it difficult for you to be yourself and go out of their way to make other people’s lives miserable, all for the improvement of their own.
6 Signs of a Toxic Person
1. Selfishness.
Talking constantly about themselves, telling you about their latest expensive purchase, holiday or promotion without bothering to ask you how you are. So busy thinking about themselves that they show zero concern for others and will not bad an eyelid at manipulating someone to get what they want.
2. They judge others
Always putting people down, making comments about how things were not done correctly or how opportunities were missed, and how much better they are at everything than anyone else.
3. They are always the victim
Blaming everyone else for their own problems and wanting someone to say “poor you” is a need for these type of toxic people. No matter if the problem is big or stupidly small, it’s always a huge issue for them. The contractor can’t finish the repairs before the weekend, so & so didn’t call me back, I’m SO tired because i work FT and no-one cares etc..
4. They are never available unless it directly concerns them.
Never answer the phone, don’t return messages or emails, are always late or not available for gatherings/events. You better believe it, they are always the first to criticise others for doing the same.
5. They only speak to you when they want something
A toxic person will always appear when they need something. Masters of manipulation and disguise, they may appear to be genuine, but it’s cleverly covering the fact that they need help and can’t be bothered (or don’t want to be seen) asking for it. However, they will never be around when you need help from them.
6. They will never admit fault
It’s always someone else’s problem. “I never said that” ….” MY child would never do that” etc. They stick to their story so much they instil doubt in others and can make them question their own memories.
So, what can you do about it?
- If you pinpoint someone as being toxic, the easiest way to deal with them is not to deal at all. If you don’t have to interact with them then don’t!
- Use the “need to know” rule. Share with them only what you have too and don’t share anything personal or confidential.
- Keep written records: especially if it’s in relation to business or other important events.
- Don’t be a confidant or a friend: Keep things businesslike and impersonal. You do not want to be made to feel depressed having to deal with them needing to be the victim.
Just Be You, Everyday