Everyone has to deal with all kinds of people all the time. And while Viktor Frankl is a strong proponent of interacting through love and in love, that strategy can sometimes result in more toxicity. Something inside triggers even more toxicity as a way of rejecting love. So, what can we do to minimize a toxic environment when love isn’t working? The following are just a few suggestions.

Control Your Emotions

It is hard to control your emotions when you feel that you are being attacked in a toxic environment. Keep your emotions under control by responding with neutral statements as calmly as possible. Avoid both positive and negative responses.

Stay Boring

Like a vampire, toxic environments (and people) feed off your emotions. Being boring “starves” the toxic by not giving it something to feed off, so staying boring by focusing on safe, neutral topics incapable of eliciting an emotional response. Avoid anything personal, controversial, or emotional.

Change the Topic of Conversation

If a conversation is driving in a negative direction, change the topic. Most toxic environments can be easily redirected by focusing on the conversation back toward them—give a compliment (boost their ego), ask questions about them (make them the center of attention), or ask for their advice on something not personal (make them feel important). 

Avoid Disagreeing

While it can be challenging, use neutral or vague expressions to “agree” with what is being said, using as few words as possible and nodding your head to keep the conversation going. Let them ramble on and on and think that you agree with your body language without saying a word. If you disagree, keep your opinions to yourself.

Disengage When Possible

Do not argue, disagree, or debate. Disengage and walk away if possible. Make whatever excuses you need to. Gracefully transition out—such as having to use the restroom, check on your spouse, or call the babysitter—whatever works to escape.