Hi, I'm Dr. Ellen Hendrickson, and welcome to episode 30 of the savvy psychologist.

I'll help you meet life's challenges with evidence-based research, a sympathetic ear, and zero judgment.

We'll use the best of psychology to help you be happy, healthy, and most importantly, yourself.

Difficult people are like bedbugs. They're unfortunately common, hard to get rid of,

and can make your life a nightmare. So many thanks to Jill

nicely of Overland Park, Kansas. She officially requested the podcast, but it's

applicable to every one of us.

Plus, later in the episode, we'll try a new segment,

savvy listener mail.

So rather than covering difficult people type by type,

like Debbie Downers, passive

aggressive, show-offs, those who cling like a bad case of static and more,

instead we'll cover four core tactics.

So when leaving a horse's head in the bed isn't an option try one of these four things

approach confront acquiesce or avoid

So strategy number one is approach. This is how your best most generous and caring self would handle this person.

Indeed, when attempting the approach method, your mantra should be opposite action.

So if you want to plug your ears and run,

instead take a deep breath, listen,

and offer genuine kindness.

A approach can work with blamers, show-offs, micro managers, basically anyone whose ridiculousness

stems from insecurity.

...