011. Setting Boundaries & Dealing with Difficult People

Imagine this: Every day at 9:00 in the morning, your grandmother comes down the stairs to water the plants… stark naked.

You’ve explained to her countless times that this isn’t appropriate, yet she continues to do it. You’ve pleaded, you’ve begged, you’ve even lost your temper, but nothing changes. It seems she's either too stubborn or too forgetful to adjust her behavior.

So, what do you do?

I often come back to this metaphor when dealing with difficult or crazy people (and yes, we can all be crazy at times).

But the answer isn’t about changing grandma, she's crazy. You have to accept that.

It’s about changing your approach. Instead of getting upset or trying to control her actions, focus on what you can control: your own mindset and actions.

I think of it like this: When someone proves incapable of changing, despite your efforts, it's time to shift your perspective. Accept that you can't control how they behave. Instead, concentrate on managing your own reactions and maintaining your own well-being.

In the case of grandma's daily routine, set some boundaries for yourself. Maybe go for a walk at 9:00 each morning, or head to the gym, a coffee shop, or simply sleep in. The key is to prioritize your own needs and activities, rather than getting caught up in frustration over her behavior.

Point being…

QUIT FINDING YOURSELF DOWNSTAIRS.

In any relationship or situation where someone's behavior is beyond your influence, focus on establishing healthy boundaries and protecting your own mental and emotional space.

One example I’ve implemented previously is silencing notifications on my phone so I’m not triggered by their communication and can respond at my leisure. Make communicating with them work for you.

Life is full of crazy, difficult people and challenging situations, but we all have the power to shape our own responses and navigate all the above. By prioritizing your needs and setting boundaries, you can maintain your peace of mind regardless of others' actions.

I'm trying to embrace the ability to control my own experience and let go of any need to change others.

No more catching grandma naked.