From micromanaging bosses to nagging parents or toxic friends, difficult people can be, well, difficult. While it’s normal to not get along with everyone, knowing when someone in your life is causing negative effects on your wellbeing can help you set boundaries and reduce problematic interactions. If you or someone you know is dealing with difficult people, consider the tips below and discover how you can stay calm and manage your wellbeing during these interactions.  

• Know yourself.  Do you know if there are certain personalities that you struggle to get along with? It is important to identify which traits are most challenging for you to deal with. Also, knowing how you react when in tense situations with others can help you know when to take a step back. Try writing down a list of reasons someone has been causing you strain and boundaries you can set to reduce that strain.  

• Keep calm. When dealing with difficult people, you can experience feelings of frustration, doubt, stress and anxiety. However, it’s important to remember to remain calm and collected. Try to separate your emotions from the situation. Notice what the person is specifically doing that is causing you frustration. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, take deep breaths and remove yourself from the situation if possible. Taking a step back can reduce anxiety, tension and prevent certain events from happening again 

• Address the problem privately. Having a one-on-one conversation with someone causing you difficult emotions can be challenging. However, suggesting solutions to the problem in a calm, respectful manner can build trust and help improve the relationship between you and the individual. Remember not to attack the person as this can lead to arguments and potentially worsen the issue. Approach the situation from a place of mutual respect and point out how you can help contribute to solving the issue as well. 

• Seek support. Loved ones are there for you in times of doubt and loneliness. Before taking further action, consider speaking to someone you trust about your problems. They can share their experiences and offer advice. For example, confiding in a colleague can also reduce feelings of worry. Speaking with a counselor can also help you identify patterns and toxic behaviors and help you better handle difficult situations. 

Kindness and compassion start with you. Be sure to recognize the importance of empathy when dealing with difficult individuals and remember, being kind can go a long way.