Dealing with unkind, angry, impatient or narcissistic people

In a world where interactions with others are inevitable, we often come across individuals who exude unkindness in various forms. Some may argue that this has become more prevalent since Covid and others feel that social media has contributed to people feeling as if they can hide somewhat behind the screen and say things which they would not have the confidence to say face to face.

Whether it's dealing with narcissistic personalities, angry individuals, impatient souls, or selfish beings, navigating these encounters can be challenging. We may well come across such individuals from all walks of life whether they are our own family members, our partners, business colleagues, bosses or even so-called friends.

It is essential to develop effective strategies to handle such situations with grace, confidence and composure. Understanding the underlying reasons for their behaviour can empower us to respond constructively and protect our well-being. Narcissistic individuals are characterised by an excessive sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Interactions with narcissists can be draining and challenging, as they often exhibit manipulative and controlling behaviour.

When dealing with a narcissistic person, it is crucial to establish boundaries and assert your needs clearly. Failing to do this means you are opening yourself up to feeling the wound internally which may then manifest as a feeling of anxiety, depression or chronic pain. Avoid getting entangled in their games or seeking validation from them. Practice self-care and prioritise your emotional well-being. Angry individuals can be intimidating and overwhelming to interact with, as their emotions can be volatile and unpredictable. When faced with someone who is prone to anger outbursts, it is essential to remain calm and composed.

Avoid escalating the situation by responding in a confrontational manner. Instead, try to defuse the tension by acknowledging their feelings and addressing the underlying issues calmly as well as ensuring that you are not people-pleasing or fawning in your response to appease the situation just to keep the peace. Learn to become more confident and comfortable expressing your own feelings, Setting boundaries and communicating assertively can help prevent conflicts from escalating. Impatient individuals often display a lack of tolerance for delays or inconveniences, making interactions with them challenging. Their behaviour can be frustrating, especially when you feel rushed or pressured to meet their demands.

When dealing with impatient individuals, it is crucial to stay focused and avoid getting swept up in their sense of urgency. Communicate clearly and assertively, setting realistic expectations about timelines and deadlines. Practising patience and maintaining a calm demeanour can help diffuse tense situations and foster better communication. Selfish individuals prioritise their needs and desires above others, often disregarding the feelings and well-being of those around them. Interactions with selfish individuals can leave you feeling unappreciated and undervalued. When dealing with selfish individuals, it is essential to set boundaries and prioritize self-care.

Avoid being manipulated or guilt-tripped into meeting their demands at the expense of your own well-being. Practice assertiveness and communicate your needs effectively, ensuring that your boundaries are respected. In conclusion, navigating interactions with unkind individuals, such as narcissistic, angry, impatient, or selfish people, requires a combination of empathy, assertiveness, and self-care. By understanding the underlying reasons for their behaviour and implementing effective strategies to protect your well-being, you can effectively handle challenging situations and maintain healthy relationships.  

Understanding that you may have also learnt to tolerate unkind behaviour from a child and now this seems ' normal' to you even though it is highly dysfunctional. Remember to prioritise your emotional well-being and seek support from trusted friends or professionals if needed. By setting boundaries and practising self-care, you can navigate interactions with unkind individuals with grace and resilience.

For support with any of the issues raised do go ahead and get in touch with a hypnotherapist who specialises in dealing with challenging emotions or narcissistic abuse, you can learn to assert yourself, heal from old dysfunctional programming and become a more confident, capable version of yourself.