Supportive relationships are important for our mental and physical health, without which we will begin to struggle.
It’s never easy walking away, but it has to be better than dealing with confrontational relationships. No one should have to put up with confrontation.
The following may help:
- When we try to change anyone who is difficult, it may only result in a power struggle, causing defensiveness and inviting criticism in through the back door. Unfortunately, that person will always see us as being the difficult ones;
- Try not to entice or challenge the other person. By keeping conversations neutral you’re not inviting problems in. People tend to have their own thoughts and opinions, so it's probably a good idea to keep the conversation simple;
- Be aware of how much control you have. Be assertive when communicating and to make sure the other person doesn’t cross their boundaries;
- It’s important to know the other person. It’s easy to always want to give someone the benefit of the doubt all the time. Keep anything important to yourself;
- If the other person isn't capable of affection emotional support, try to accept them that way. Part of the problem is hoping people change. It is us who should change.
Take time for yourself and keep your distance if you need to, until the coast is clear. No one should have to put up with confrontations.
Great advice and suggestions.
Thanks Lisa.
It sounds bizarre but I think I used to actually enjoy having confrontational relationships since it was all I was used to from my childhood!
I ended up with many a "toxic" friend who would make my life very difficult with all the chaos they would drag with them.
Now I usually try to avoid those people which makes my life pretty stable. I do miss the chaos at times, but that's because it was all I knew and for the most part, my life is a lot simpler without it.
Unfortunately it's familiar and all we know. It's not surprising you feel you miss the chaos, but you're much better off without it.
I am pleased your life is so much more simple without it. That's the way it should be.
Very thought provoking. Thanks!
I'm glad you found it thought provoking! Thanks for posting.
Sound advice - as ever. Unfortunately it is easy to get drawn into confrontation before you know where an argument is heading.
I tend to remind myself that I don't have to convince the other person they are wrong if I know it. I find that helps.
Thank you. I agree that it's easy to get drawn in, but from my own experience it depends on who I'm having the discussion with. It helps to know our customers!
You can never or will never change a person.
You can only find things in them and love them for who they are. Be sure they love you just as much, because if not things always end in a broken heart.
Thanks Justin. Your response sounds like you've very much speaking from personal experience. You seem very passionate about it.
You're right, none of us can change anyone else. They have to want to change and do it for themselves. I do believe anyone can change, they just have to want to.