Keep Your Emotions Under Control

An intense emotional reaction can be perceived by a toxic person as a manifestation of weakness and insecurity, which will trigger them to even more provocation: inappropriate jokes, manipulation and unfair criticism. Keeping an emotional distance requires awareness. Periodically, you will find that you are in a situation where you need to stop and choose the best course of action. Sometimes the best course of action is to smile and nod, and in the meantime, pause and plan your next steps.