How to Cope With Spiteful Family Members

The old saying, “You can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your family,” is very true. We as people, have no decision in the matter of our lineage, especially when you have to cope with family members who tend to be spiteful or malicious. Fortunately, you don’t have to accept this negative behavior. You can learn how to cope with spiteful family members without becoming a spiteful person. Read on to learn how to cope with spiteful family members.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Accept the fact that you are related to a spiteful, sometimes disruptive person. The reality of the situation may be problematic, but it needs to be accepted. Realize that your family member may have mental and/or physical issues that prompt them to act in a spiteful, malicious manner. Although, this is a burden for all those involved, accepting this major character flaw, allows you to act accordingly.
2. Keep your positive attitude. Many times spiteful people purposely try to push your buttons. This is the time to remain calm in the storm. Keep your positive attitude, by not allowing their disruptions to ruin one second of your day.
3. Keep your distance. No one ever said you had to be a "close" family member. By this point, your spiteful family member now has a reputation. Learn to keep your distance and alleviate the possibility or unnecessary drama and confusion.
4. Cut your ties. This is the absolute last step, but it is essential to positive growth as an individual who strives for excellence in their own life. Cutting your ties can be done by limiting your phone conversations, personal interactions and communication. It is for your own good.

Tips & Warnings

• Mentally prepare yourself for family gatherings, such as holidays and reunions.
• Since children are easily influenced, try to keep a safe distance between your children and your family member. You do not want them to think that spiteful and malicious behavior is acceptable.
• Learn meditation techniques that help you keep cope with disruptive people and situations.
• Remember that following the steps above help you counteract negativism.
• Be kind on holidays by sending a greeting card. You don’t have to exclude your spiteful family member from the list. Sending a card proves that you are a kind, generous person who does not hold animosity towards them.
• Learn the warning signs. If you feel as though your spiteful family member is up to something suspicious, such as trying to start a fight or cause confusion in the family, stay out of the situation and warn others.
• Do not regret cutting your ties with a spiteful relative.