Do you have days where you just wish you were able to strangle someone or drop him into a boiling pot of water? I recently had such strong emotions running through my mind when I was angered by a nasty e-mail that I received. Reading profanities that were splattered all around in the content and being accused of doing something which I haven’t done really made my blood boil. I do not condone foul language and do not use it in my correspondence.
Maybe the sender was having a bad day at work and needed to find someone on whom he could take out the brunt of his anger, but he has found the wrong target. I believe in not letting myself be a victim and I try to not get influenced by negative vibes. Here are some tips that I have used to defuse these “time bombs” that have been thrown my way:
- You can respond
Let the aggressor know that you do not need to validate his point and you don’t condone his words/threats. - Ignore or be indifferent
Click on the delete button or just space the person out of your life as toxic people shouldn’t play any part in your life. - Kill him/her with kindness
This could be a double-edged sword as it can go two ways. The other person maybe apologetic and retract his words, or s/he can go the other way and take further advantage of your kindness.
Do you have any other tips to add to the list?
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Dominique Goh, Singaporean elementary school teacher, professional blogger and mom of three who is passionate about parenting and educating kids. In her free time you can see her dabbling in photography, cooking and cake decorating and blogging at Dominique’s Desk.